Your kitchen can be a bustling area, but it's important to maintain safety to minimise your risk of falling. Our easy-to-follow advice helps you identify hazards and reduce falls risk in the kitchen: 

Wet flooring

Is there a chance of slipping on wet floors, especially near the sink and washing machine? To reduce the risk, use non-slip mats, fitted carpets, or carpet tiles in wet areas. Promptly mop up wet floor areas to prevent accidents

Accessibility

Are your everyday items within easy reach, or do you find yourself stretching or climbing on chairs or stools? Make sure that frequently used items are placed on easily reachable shelves. And try to avoid reaching above head height, as it can lead to dizziness

Steps and ladders

If you have to use steps, are they secure, with a handrail and a system to keep the legs locked? Never use chairs or stools to stand on because they may tip over easily. Properly designed steps with an effective handrail and leg-lock mechanism can be used safely if you are physically fit

Carrying items

Do you struggle to carry items from the kitchen to the dining area? If so, a kitchen trolley might be helpful. However, keep in mind that trolleys are not meant as walking aids but for transporting items. If you have concerns about your stability, consult a mobility aid shop, or request a referral to an Occupational Therapist or Physiotherapist

For adaptations and other solutions, including handrails, consider speaking to organisations specialising in home modifications or social services. Their expertise can help ensure your kitchen is a safe and functional space.

Links and Resources

Home Adaptations:

Contact your local Handyperson Service for support with minor adaptations such as additional handrails:

Cheshire East Handyperson Service: Orbitas

Cheshire West and Chester Handyperson Service: Homekey+

Managing at Home:

For further assessment, if you are struggling to manage around your home, contact Social Services:

Cheshire East:

• Request an assessment from Adult Social Care by telephoning 0300 123 5010
• For more information on Social Care Assessments, view social care assessments website
• Visit the Choices for Care webpage to complete an online form and identify the support you may need

Cheshire West and Chester:

• For information about Adult Social Care and eligibility, view the social care assessments website or telephone the Community Access Team on 0300 123 7034
• Complete a Self-Assessment to establish your support needs, and submit your answers to the Community Access Team for a call back

If you feel you are struggling to manage at home due to changes in your mobility, contact your GP surgery and ask to be referred for assessment for rehabilitation.

Fire Safety:

For a fire home safety check with Cheshire Fire & Rescue, complete an online request form

Download the Cheshire Fire & Rescue Safe and Well Booklet for more information about reducing the risk of fire in your home

Cheshire Fire & Rescue Safe and Well Booklet