Health Tip: Make Your Stairs Safer

(HealthDay News) -- Stairs, inside and outside a home, can be a hazard for elderly people.

The City of Ottawa recommends you ensure that:

• Stair edges are marked with contrasting colors.
• They have a non-slip surface.
• Handrails are present on both sides of stairs.
• Handrail height feels comfortable when used for support.
• Handrails extend 12 inches beyond the top and bottom steps, and are round in shape.

-- Felicity Stone

Last Updated: Sept. 14, 2005