Creating a safe home

Outdoors and garden

Using your external doors to go outdoors

If it is awkward or you are having difficulty stepping in and out of your property, ask someone to fit a grab rail.

If you have a high step to get in and out of your property, ask someone to fit an additional step and grab rail.

Put down any loads you are carrying before you attempt the step to avoid losing your balance and falling. 

Get as close as possible to the door before you use the key, so you are not reaching to open the door.

Going outdoors

Try to avoid going out in the dark or low light conditions.

Avoid going out in extreme weather conditions, very cold and icy conditions or in very hot temperatures.

Be aware of the weather conditions and how they might affect your balance and grip when walking outside.

Be aware of any uneven pavement or other potential trip hazards where you are walking or planning to walk. 

Where possible, have another person with you. 

In your garden

Keep paths clear of leaves, algae, moss, and overgrown plants. These will make the paths and steps slippery when wet. There are products available to rinse off and remove algae.

Move garden furniture, plant pots or ornaments away from your path so you have enough space to walk around outside.

If you need to go out when the paths are icy, cover them in salt or sandy salt. Avoid going out in icy conditions if possible.

Make sure your washing line is the right height to avoid over stretching or bending and risk losing balance.

Never use a ladder alone, its far safer to have someone hold the ladder for you. If possible, have someone else climb the ladder for you.

Always put garden tools, rakes, and spades away.

Equipment that may help

There are several types of equipment that can help you move around outdoors, including a:

• mobility aid, such as a walking stick - this may help you with your balance while you are outdoors
• grab rail fitted next to your front or back door - this could assist you as you are stepping in and out
• security light - this will not only add to your protection, but it will provide you with light when there is reduced natural light
• ramp - this could be placed over your entrance steps to make it easier to enter your home if you have a wheelchair

For permanent ramping you may be eligible for a government grant called a Disabled Facilities Grant (DFG).

Find out more about aids, adaptations and equipment that could help you to stay independent in your own home.

Last updated 13 November 2023