Navigating the outdoor areas around your home, including paths, steps and the garden, requires attention to safety. 

Here are some tips to help you identify hazards and enhance falls safety in external areas of your home:

• Clear pathways: Are your paths clear of leaves and overgrown plants? Maintaining tidy outdoor areas, free of obstacles, is essential for safety. Regularly clear away leaves and trim overgrown plants to keep pathways clear.
• Slippery surfaces: Are your paving stones free of moss and algae? If not, this can become slippery when wet. Prune overhanging plants and branches to improve lighting. You can purchase products to remove algae or get help from someone to do it with a pressure washer.
• Uneven or broken paving: Do you have any uneven or broken paving slabs? These can be trip hazards. Arrange for someone to replace or straighten them to ensure a level walking surface.
• Gardening considerations: Are your flower beds at ground level? They’ll be easier to access if they’re in containers or raised beds. When you are in the garden, avoid spending too much time in one position and be cautious when standing up from a bent-over position. Alternate between seated and standing activities to reduce strain.
• Entry steps: Do you have high steps to get in and out of the property? Consider installing an additional step or grab rails for added stability and safety. Remember to use your walking aid, if you use one.

By addressing these outdoor safety measures, you can create a safer external environment, reducing the risk of falls.

To find a local handyman or gardener, who can fit solutions or help with external areas around your home, contact your local council.