National Work from Home Safety and Security Week is the perfect time to make sure your home office is not just productive and cozy, but also safe and secure. Many of us focus on comfortable chairs and fast Wi-Fi, which are certainly important. However, there is a whole world of home and personal safety considerations that can protect both your family and your livelihood. Let’s dive into a few key steps you can take to keep everything running smoothly and securely.

First, let’s talk about physical safety. Slips, trips, and falls can happen in an instant, and they’re often the last thing on our minds when we’re dashing from one room to another between work calls. Installing safety handrails on all your stairs is a great place to start. Non-slip flooring or mats can also minimize the risk of accidental falls, especially in high-traffic areas like entryways or near the kitchen. If you’re someone who tends to shuffle around the house in socks, consider opting for socks with treads or grip soles to keep your footing stable.

Next, it’s critical to have a plan for potential fires or gas leaks, which may be especially important if you’re spending more time at home than usual. Carbon monoxide and natural gas detectors are essential in any home. If you already have smoke detectors, make a habit of testing them monthly to ensure they’re working properly. Keep your fire extinguisher up to date (they do expire), and if you have more than one story in your home, a fire safety ladder can be a lifesaver in an emergency. It’s one of those tools you hope you never need but will be grateful to have on hand if the unexpected happens.

With home delivery on the rise—whether it’s HelloFresh, Amazon Prime, or Walmart+—it’s also important to consider how you’re accepting packages. Porch piracy and unannounced visitors aren’t just problems for big businesses. You can address these issues by setting up unique entry codes for secure access or installing a video doorbell or camera system to see who’s at your door before you open it. Some systems even allow you to provide limited access to your garage or foyer for deliveries, which can be incredibly convenient while keeping your personal space safe from intruders.

If you’re looking to take things a step further, consider a security system like SimpliSafe. It offers motion detectors, an ultra-high pitch alarm, professional monitoring, and live video so you can communicate with someone outside—even if you’re hiding in a back room during a late-night work session. Another essential is a fireproof and waterproof organizer bag, perfect for safeguarding important documents like birth certificates, passports, and other paperwork that could be difficult to replace. And while it may feel like planning for the worst, having a Life Vac Home Suction device available could be a lifesaver in a choking emergency.

Finally, don’t forget to check in with your home insurance provider. Many companies offer discounts if you equip your house with proper security devices and safety features. That might mean savings for you and added peace of mind, which is a win all around.

I’ve compiled a list of my favorite household essentials, including some of the items mentioned above, in my Amazon storefront. Feel free to browse my recommendations at:
https://www.amazon.com/shop/slowandsage/list/3OQHQKLI62Z26?ref_=aip_sf_list_spv_ons_mixed_d

Amazon Affiliate Disclosure: As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases, which helps me continue to share useful resources and tips. If you do decide to make a purchase, thank you for supporting my blog and the information I provide.

I hope these tips give you a few ideas on how to keep your work-from-home environment safe and secure. If you have any personal insights, stories, or additional recommendations, I’d love to hear about them. Stay safe out there, and here’s to another productive and secure week at home.