We’ve all heard the caution: Be careful, accidents happen closest to home. Whether you believe the old adage or not, there are some safety measures that should be considered if your children or pets like to roam the great outdoors that surround your house. Research has proven that there are health risks close to home, particularly right in your backyard. Utilizing the 5 easy fixes below, you can keep your family safe and healthy!

Fence Your Pool - Nearly one quarter of all drowning accidents in the United States happen in a homeowner’s backyard. Whether your pool is built in, or above ground, you should always have a fence surrounding it that is at least 5 feet high. Also, make sure the latch is childproof and cannot be opened without an adult. This is a surefire way to ensure children and animals won’t find their way into your pool when you’re not around.

Toxic Plants – More than 60,000 people in the United States are poisoned by plants each year-a staggering number that might surprise you. Even more surprising: most of these plants can be found in common neighborhoods. Thankfully, most toxins result in nothing more than stomach irritation or an itchy skin rash, but some can be very harmful to pets and children. Do your research before allowing your children to play in the vegetation of a new home.

Standing Water – The tiny pools of water that accumulate in your yard could be dangerous to you and your family. These puddles are prime breeding grounds for mosquitoes. This not only increases the risk of irritating bites but also more serious infections. To keep your family safe, frequently change water in fountains and birdbaths and discard any water pools in buckets or plastic covers.

Hot Coals – It’s quite common to toss coals after grilling-just make sure they are cool to the touch first. Throwing away hot coals are an easy way to start a fire. When you are ready to dispose of coals soak them in cold water and place them in a noncombustible metal container. And, always watch small children around a hot grill.

Weathered Deck - Weather proofing your deck every 2 to 3 years stops the wood from warping and cracking. This reduces the risk of falls and accidents. Inspect your deck yearly to ensure the wood is not split or cracked. Keep your family safe and injury free!