Staircase Safety When You Live Alone

Stairs are responsible for more serious fall injuries than any other feature in the home. When you live alone, a fall on the stairs can leave you stranded for hours.

Download Free Learn More

Stair-related falls send approximately 1 million Americans to emergency rooms every year, making stairs the most hazardous feature in the average home.

The Challenge

A fall on the stairs can cause serious injury, and when alone, you may be unable to reach your phone to call for help.

Poor lighting, worn carpet, or missing handrails make even familiar staircases dangerous.

Carrying items up and down stairs while living alone means both hands may be occupied, reducing grip on the rail.

How I'm Alive Helps

Ensure a secure handrail runs the full length of both sides of the staircase and is checked for wobble regularly.

Install stair edge nosing strips in a contrasting colour and ensure the staircase is well lit at all times.

Set up I'm Alive check-ins so contacts are notified if a staircase fall prevents you from responding.

Making Stairs Safer

Check that handrails are firmly anchored at both top and bottom and along the length of the staircase. A wobbly handrail is more dangerous than no rail because it gives false confidence. Fit non-slip stair treads or ensure carpet is fully tacked down with no lifted edges. Replace worn carpet on stairs promptly — it is a common trip hazard. Install a light switch at both the top and bottom of the stairs. Consider a timed or motion-activated solution so the stairs are always lit when in use.

Safe Habits on Stairs

Always hold the handrail when ascending or descending — even if you feel steady. Take one step at a time and focus on the task rather than carrying on a phone conversation. Never carry items that block your view of the steps or prevent you from holding the rail. Use a bag, basket, or backpack to carry items up and down stairs hands-free. If you have reduced mobility or balance issues, consider whether a stairlift would remove the risk entirely. I'm Alive check-ins add a safety net — if a fall prevents you from responding, your contacts are alerted.

Take the Living Alone Safety Assessment Get Free Emergency Contact Card

Get safety tips delivered to your inbox

Frequently Asked Questions

Should I have handrails on both sides of the stairs?

Ideally yes, especially for older adults or those with balance issues. Both-side handrails allow you to support yourself fully and can be critical when descending.

What is the safest way to carry items upstairs?

Use a bag, backpack, or laundry basket to carry items hands-free, keeping both hands free for the rail. Make multiple trips rather than overloading.

Are spiral or open staircases more dangerous?

Spiral and open-tread staircases have narrower treads and lack the full-foot support of standard closed stairs, making them higher risk — especially for older adults.

When should I consider a stairlift?

If you regularly feel unsteady on stairs, experience joint pain, or have had a near-miss fall, a stairlift assessment is worth pursuing. Many councils offer grants for older adults.

How does I'm Alive help with staircase safety?

If a fall on the stairs leaves you unable to respond to your scheduled check-in, your trusted contacts are notified immediately so they can call for help.