Accidents happen. So do injuries and illnesses. But as a new homeowner, you can take simple steps to reduce risks.
Why it matters: Safety in your home isn’t automatic. Small actions now can prevent costly damage, serious health issues, or emergencies later.
1. Get New Keys
Builders and subcontractors may still have access to your doors. Have a locksmith rekey locks or install smart locks.
2. Test for Radon
Radon is a colorless gas linked to lung cancer. Buy a test kit for your lowest living level. If levels are high, hire professionals to mitigate the problem.
A good resource is the EPA’s booklet, “Home Buyer’s and Seller’s Guide To Radon”.
3. Find Your Main Water Supply
In a leak or burst, you need to act fast. Know where the shutoff valve is – usually in the basement or near the street. Mold isn’t just fuzz on old fruit. Inside a home, it can cause a variety of health ailments.
4. Flush Your Plumbing
New pipes connect to old street lines. Run water through taps, showers, and tubs to clear out stagnant or rusty water.
5. Light Your Staircase
Stairs are a top hazard, especially for kids and older adults. Add nightlights at the top, along hallways, and down the steps. Motion detector lights are another great option for safety.
6. Maintain Your Fireplace
Chimneys collect buildup that can combust. Schedule annual cleanings or gas inspections. Install carbon monoxide detectors near fireplaces.
7. Separate Your Toxics
Store chemicals and flammable liquids in intact containers, away from paper goods and household items.
Bottom line: A few preventative steps – like rekeying, testing, and routine maintenance – can keep your new home safe for you and your family.
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Marcie Geffner
Marcie Geffner is an award-winning freelance reporter, writer and editor in Ventura, California. In the last decade, she has penned more than 1,000 published stories about residential and commercial real estate, banking, credit cards, computer security, health insurance and small business, among other subjects. Editors describe her as “detail-driven,” “conscientious,” “smart” and “incredibly versatile.” Her award-winning reporting has been lauded as “rock solid,” “spot-on relevant,” “informative,” “engaging,” “interesting” and “nuanced.” Her stories have been cited in seven published nonfiction books and two U.S. Congressional hearings. Prior to her freelance career, Geffner was senior editor of California Real Estate magazine. Later, she became managing editor of Inman.com, an independent real estate news website. She also has prior employment experience in technical writing, corporate communications and employee communications. She received a bachelor’s degree in English with high honors from UCLA and master’s degree in business administration (MBA) from Pepperdine University in Malibu, California. She enjoys reading, home improvement projects and watching seagulls at the beach.