Falls are a common source of injury at home, and the kitchen is one of the highest-risk areas. Slick floors, spills, cluttered walkways, and reaching for items in high places can lead to serious accidents—especially for older adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), more than 3 million older adults are treated in emergency rooms each year for fall injuries. While anyone can slip and fall, older individuals face a greater risk of long-term harm. If you or someone close to you has already been injured, speaking with our Santa Monica, CA slip and fall lawyer can be a helpful step.
How To Prevent Kitchen Slip And Falls
Keep The Floor Dry And Clear
Wet or greasy kitchen floors are one of the most common causes of falls. Spills should be cleaned up as soon as they happen, even if it’s just a few drops of water. Use absorbent, non-slip mats in areas near the sink and stove, where water or oil are more likely to drip. If you use rugs, choose ones with rubber backing to help them stay in place. Avoid rugs that slide or bunch up easily.
It’s also important to keep walkways clear. Don’t allow bags, cords, or small appliances to block the path from one part of the kitchen to another. Keep floor-level storage to a minimum and avoid placing anything where it might be stepped on or tripped over.
Improve Lighting
Good lighting is a simple but powerful way to prevent accidents. Make sure your kitchen is well-lit, especially in corners or around high-use areas like the sink, stove, and refrigerator. If overhead lighting is dim, consider adding under-cabinet lighting or using brighter bulbs. Motion-sensor lights can also be helpful, especially if you or a loved one tends to visit the kitchen during the night.
Use Stable Footwear
Wearing sturdy, non-slip shoes indoors can make a big difference. Avoid walking in the kitchen with socks or slippers that have smooth soles, as these can slip easily on tile or linoleum. Supportive footwear gives better traction and balance, both of which reduce the risk of falling.
Store Items Within Easy Reach
One of the more overlooked risks in the kitchen is overreaching or climbing to reach something stored high up. Try to keep daily-use items in lower cabinets or shelves, within easy reach. If you must use a step stool, choose one with a wide base and hand support. Avoid standing on chairs or unsteady surfaces, which can easily tip.
Make Smart Design Adjustments
Sometimes, small adjustments to the kitchen layout can lower fall risks. Add drawer-style cabinets to reduce bending or twisting. Install grab bars near areas where extra balance might be helpful. Even something simple like adjusting the height of a microwave can remove the need to reach or lift from awkward positions.
Experienced Personal Injury Representation
Falls in the kitchen can happen in seconds, but their effects can last much longer. If you or a loved one has experienced a serious fall due to unsafe conditions, it’s worth speaking with a legal professional. At the Choulos & Tsoi Law Firm, we’re committed to helping people who’ve been hurt by avoidable hazards.
If you’re dealing with the aftermath of a fall and have questions about what your options are, reach out to our personal injury attorneys today. We offer free consultations and are here to listen to your story. Let’s talk about how we can help you.