For the person whose seizures are not well controlled, there are certain safeguards around the home that can prevent serious injuries in the event of a seizure.
Kitchen
- Microwave ovens are usually a safer alternative to a traditional range.
- When using a stove:
- select a model with controls located at the front
- use the back burners whenever possible
- use a stove guard which fits around the side and front of the stove.
- Buy a kettle and iron with an automatic switch-off.
- When loading a dishwasher, ensure that knives and other sharp ustensils are placed safely out of the way.
- Avoid:
- breakable dinnerware
- electric egg beaters
- electric carving knives
Bathroom
- Never lock the bathroom door.
- Sit down when showering, and only shower when someone else is at home.
- Avoid baths entirely. A sponge bath using the sink is a safe alternative.
- Keep a rubber bathmat on the floor of the shower, and pad the edge of the tub with a folded towel.
- To prevent burns, turn on the cold water first, and avoid glass shower doors.
TV / Computer / Video Games
The following recommendations apply if seizures are triggered by flashing or flickering lights:
- Ensure that the screen is in good working order.
- To reduce contrast, always have a light on in the room, situated above and behind the viewer.
- Watch television at a distance of at least 3 metres, at a 45-degree angle.
Other Home Safety Measures
- Bungalows and spilt-level houses are safer than two-storey homes.
- Look for ground level entry when purchasing or renting a house.
- When decorating, avoid glass and mirror tiles as well as floor or table lamps. Select furniture with rounded edges. Whenever possible, place furniture against the wall.
- Forced air heating is preferable to exposed heating elements such as radiators and baseboard heaters.
- Staircases with several landings are recommended to prevent long falls.