Night-Time Safety Checklist

A practical checklist for safer movement around the home at night

Use this checklist to identify potential safety, lighting and accessibility issues that may make moving around the home at night more difficult. Work through each section and tick the items that are already addressed.

1. Getting Out of Bed

• ☐ There is enough clear space beside the bed to stand up and move safely.
• ☐ The area around the bed is free from clutter and trip hazards.
• ☐ A bedside light or other suitable light source is within easy reach.
• ☐ Light switches can be accessed without walking through a dark area.
• ☐ Frequently used footwear is easy to reach without unnecessary bending or stretching.
• ☐ Mobility aids can be accessed safely when needed.
• ☐ The bed height is suitable for the person using it.
• ☐ Suitable support is available if getting out of bed is difficult.

2. Bedroom Lighting

• ☐ The bedroom has adequate lighting for moving around safely.
• ☐ A bedside lamp or other convenient light source is available.
• ☐ The light can be operated without having to cross the room in darkness.
• ☐ Light switches are easy to locate and operate.
• ☐ Night lights are available where additional low-level lighting is useful.
• ☐ Dark areas and excessive shadows are minimised where possible.
• ☐ Lighting does not create excessive glare that makes it difficult to see obstacles.

3. Pathways Around the Home

• ☐ The pathway between the bedroom and bathroom is clear.
• ☐ Walking areas are free from loose rugs, mats and other trip hazards.
• ☐ Electrical cords do not cross walking paths.
• ☐ Furniture does not obstruct commonly used pathways.
• ☐ Shoes, clothing and other items are kept off the floor.
• ☐ Night lighting is available along frequently used pathways where needed.
• ☐ There is enough space to safely use a walking aid or mobility equipment.

4. Bathroom Access at Night

• ☐ The pathway to the bathroom is adequately illuminated.
• ☐ The bathroom can be accessed without unnecessary obstacles.
• ☐ The toilet area has sufficient lighting for safe use.
• ☐ Toilet paper and other frequently used items are within easy reach.
• ☐ Bathroom floors are reasonably dry and free from unnecessary hazards.
• ☐ Mats and rugs are secure and do not create a slipping or tripping hazard.
• ☐ A suitable night light or other low-level lighting is available if needed.

5. Stairs & Changes in Level

• ☐ Stairs and steps are adequately illuminated at night.
• ☐ A light switch or other suitable lighting control is accessible before using the stairs.
• ☐ Handrails are available where needed and are secure.
• ☐ Steps are clear of clothing, shoes, objects and other obstacles.
• ☐ Step edges and changes in floor level are easy to see.
• ☐ Stair and step surfaces provide suitable grip.
• ☐ There is no need to navigate stairs or steps in darkness.

6. Personal Safety & Convenience

• ☐ A phone or suitable communication device is accessible when needed.
• ☐ Frequently used items are positioned within comfortable reach.
• ☐ Suitable footwear is readily available for walking around the home at night.
• ☐ Mobility aids are positioned where they can be accessed safely.
• ☐ Doors and exits can be accessed without unnecessary obstacles.
• ☐ Emergency access to the bedroom and other commonly used areas is not obstructed.
• ☐ Night-time routines can be completed without unnecessary rushing, reaching or climbing.

Review Your Night-Time Setup

Have you identified any areas that may need further attention?

• ☐ Getting out of bed
• ☐ Bedroom lighting
• ☐ Pathways around the home
• ☐ Bathroom access at night
• ☐ Stairs & changes in level
• ☐ Personal safety & convenience

Need Additional Support?

If you've identified areas that may need further attention, we're here to help. Give us a call or send us a message to discuss your needs and how we may be able to assist.

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Important

This checklist provides general information only and is not a professional home-safety assessment. It does not replace medical, occupational therapy or other professional advice, manufacturer instructions or applicable building requirements. Consider the individual needs of the person using the home when making safety or accessibility changes.

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