Safety checklists

The following checklists will help you to stay safe around your home, work or school.

Around the house

Consider a microwave instead of stove top or oven
If using a stove use the back elements and turn pan handles away from the stove
Consider a temperature controlled hot water service
Serve hot dishes from a bench instead of carrying them to the table
Use cordless electrical appliances with automatic switch off and appliances like food processors rather than using sharp knives
Use rubber gloves when washing dishes
Use non-breakable crockery and have hot drinks in a mug with a lid
If using a dishwasher place points and sharp objects down and close door when not in use
Consider cupboards with recessed handles
Minimise the use of knives; Consider buying pre sliced food

Use fixed fireguards around a fireplace
Consider round rather than square or rectangular coffee tables
Use shatterproof glass for big windows
LCD screens for computers are flicker free and useful for people with photosensitive epilepsy

Consider a temperature controlled hot water service
Always turn on cold water first
Use a handheld shower attachment in the shower and in the bath if no shower available. Remember to leave the plug out
Consider shower curtains rather than a glass screen or in the case of a glass screen use reinforced glass
Consider rubber backed mats
Avoid the use of electrical appliances like hairdryers and electrical razors near water
Consider the use of a shower chair
In the toilet an outward opening door is very important
Toilet roll holder on the floor beside or behind the toilet may minimise injury if someone has a seizure while on the toilet

Install smoke alarms and minimise clutter
Clear walkways before going to bed at night
Tape any electrical cords to the floor
Consider doors that are outward opening, sliding, half doors or doors that are easily removed
Don’t lock internal doors and if using a deadlock, leave the key in the lock. Use security sets for bathrooms and toilets if needed. These can be unlocked from the outside if necessary
Consider having safety switches in the metre box installed by an electrician
Minimise sharp edges and corners
Avoid living in accommodation with stairs or consider a safety gate at the top of the stairs
Wear an identification bracelet or have information available in case of a seizure
Keep medications out of reach of children. Store in a cool dry place and do not remove from pillbox or Webster pack ahead of time
Push button phones can be programmed so that pushing a particular button after a seizure alerts a relative or friend that the person may need some help
Minimise glass for example in doors, cupboards and table tops

Never swim alone and while participating in water activities, take a friend or carer
Let a lifeguard know about your condition
Wear lifejackets in boats and when fishing
Avoid scuba diving and high board diving
Avoid water that is too hot, such as in a spa. Drink plenty of water
Always wear a helmet (this is law anyway) and use bike track/lanes where possible
Whenever participating in an activity where a fall may be possible or it poses the risk of a head injury, use protective head gear
Be aware of over exertion or over heating, drink plenty of water
If possible try to choose activities that take place on softer surfaces such as grass, mats, etc.
Consider if it is useful to have a gym buddy if using weights, stationary equipment, etc.

Download this Safety checklist. It’s a good idea to refer back to it from time to time to ensure you are living a safe and happy life.

Source: Epifile: An Epilepsy Management Manual. Epilepsy Australia Ltd. Updated June 2013.

For more information please see Epilepsy Australia