By Gene and Katie Hamilton

To make your home a safe haven for everyone who lives there, consider making these improvements and upgrades that can prevent a harmful accident from happening. Click on the link to each project to learn what’s involved and the cost of doing it yourself compared with hiring a contractor. When you enter your ZIP Code in the cost box the price adjusts to where you live.

COST TO INSTALL A MOTION SENSING SWITCH Good lighting is a key factor in preventing falls at home so install a motion sensing switch that makes the light turn on instantly when someone enters the room.

COST TO ADD A STAIR RAILING Add a second stair railing to a staircase and assure safe passage up and down the stairs.

COST TO INSTALL A SHOWER PRESSURE VALVE Prevent scalding water in the shower with a pressure valve that regulates the flow of water when another water appliance is turned on.

COST TO INSTALL A GRAB BAR Make a bathtub and shower stall safe for entering and exiting with a basic grab bar that provides a sturdy grib and prevents slipping on wet surfaces.

COST TO INSTALL A CO DETECTOR When a gas furnace fails to fully burn the fuel carbon monoxide can become a danger. Install an alarm that measures the amount of gas to prevent this silent killer.

COST TO INSTALL A SMOKE DETECTOR Install smoke alarms in a house to detect a fire as a safety precaution and prevent a fire from occurring.

COST TO INSTALL A GFCI A ground fault circuit interrupter, required in all electrical outlets in kitchen and bathroom and in wet areas of a house, reduces the danger of a deadly shock from a faulty plug-in cord or appliance.

Like crossword puzzles? Try this one HOME SAFE HOME