Staircases are a renowned hotspot for falls and accidents in the house.
However, you can help prevent falls from occurring in your home by making stair safety a top priority. Our top tips for achieving staircase safety will provide better protection for your family and friends when moving up and down your stairs.
Keep reading to find out how you can ensure the potential for accidents on your stairway is reduced.
Why is Stair Safety Important?
A safe staircase is necessary in preventing dangerous falls, which can lead to serious injuries such as broken bones, head trauma and even fatalities.
A survey for the BWF Stair Scheme found that there’s an estimated fall on the stairs every 90 seconds in the UK, and around 250,000 non-fatal accidents which are severe enough to warrant a visit to A&E.
These stats make staircase safety even more imperative - so, how can you go about making your stairs as risk-free as possible?
Stair Safety Advice
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Check for loose parts
Loose or broken stair parts are safety hazards and can cause instability for stair users on your flight. In particular, be on the lookout for loose treads or wobbly handrails, as these can severely impact how people use your staircase safely.
If you find any signs of broken components, be sure to replace them immediately or secure them if they’re still in good condition, but have just loosened over time.
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Install safety handrails for stairs
Handrails are an essential safety feature that help to support stair users and prevent accidents on staircases. These are long rails that run parallel along your stairs - individuals just have to reach out to grip the rail, steadying themselves as they head up or down each step.
So, if you haven’t already, make sure there’s a steady handrail fitted next to your flight of stairs.
See our blog ‘Are handrails required for houses and flats?’ to find out more about why you should install a handrail along your staircase.
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Keep your staircase clear
A cluttered staircase increases the likelihood of accidents on your stairs. Leaving shoes, toys, or fresh laundry on the staircase to take upstairs can cause people to trip and fall, potentially hurting themselves as a result.
Instead, make an effort to keep loose items, like shoes, neatly stored away from high-traffic areas, such as your stairs.
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Add stair lighting
Without enough lighting, you, your family, or any guests who visit may struggle to see each step.
This creates a hazard and can consequently lead to falls, so, with this in mind, you need to install adequate lighting on your stairs. This can range from wall and hanging lights to LED strips along your treads.
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Invest in stair nosing
Stair nosings are additional stair parts you can install on your treads that add an extra layer of safety to your staircase.
Stair nosing covers the edge of each step, increasing its surface area and making each more visible.
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Use a stair gate
Have little ones or pets that could hurt themselves on the stairs?
Fitting a stair gate to the base or top of your stairs is a tried and tested way to stop children or your four-legged friend from accessing the stairway unsupervised.
Stair Parts from Stair Crazy
Staircase safety is vital in any domestic space, so it’s crucial that you do everything you can to keep the people who use your stairs safe. By following our helpful tips, you’ll be able to make sure your home keeps everyone secure as they move around your space.
If your current stair components need replacement, you’ve come to the right place! At Stair Crazy, we specialise in supplying exceptional quality parts that are built to last.
If you’d like to speak to our team or put in a parts order, why not give us a call today, and we’ll gladly assist you.