🔴 Truth Drop
More than 70% of household fires, shocks, and accidents in India occur due to basic negligence that can be fixed with simple do-it-yourself safety habits.
(Source: NDMA Domestic Safety Report, 2025)
“Prevention isn’t a professional job — it’s a personal habit.”
📖 Why This Matters
Emergencies don’t always wait for experts.
In the first few minutes of any crisis — a short circuit, a leak, or a fall — your response decides survival.
But with small, everyday steps, every Indian home can become its own safety zone.
This isn’t just about tools — it’s about mindset.
📊 Household Accidents & Avoidable Causes (2019–2025)
| Type of Incident | % Due to Human Negligence | Can Be Prevented With |
|---|---|---|
| Fire accidents | 82% | Proper wiring & extinguisher check |
| Gas leaks | 76% | Regulator/tube inspection |
| Electric shocks | 68% | Earthing & dry handling |
| Slips/falls | 71% | Anti-slip mats, clutter-free floors |
| Burns/scalds | 64% | Awareness & proper stove setup |
| Choking incidents | 58% | Proper storage & supervision |
(Sources: NCRB, NDMA, BIS Domestic Safety Survey, 2025)
📈 Insight:
If every household followed 10 minutes of monthly safety checks, India could save over 15,000 lives per year.
🧠 The DIY Safety Mindset
Safety isn’t complicated — it’s continuous.
You don’t need a uniform or equipment.
You just need awareness, observation, and 10 minutes a week.
🛠️ 10 DIY Safety Tips That Save Lives
1️⃣ Check your plugs and wires — if warm or cracked, replace immediately.
2️⃣ Inspect LPG pipe and regulator — apply soap water monthly.
3️⃣ Test smoke alarm — one button press could save a life.
4️⃣ Keep first-aid kit accessible — not hidden in drawers.
5️⃣ Mark emergency contacts near landline or fridge.
6️⃣ Practice a 2-minute family evacuation drill — especially for kids.
7️⃣ Keep heavy items low — prevent falls during tremors or accidents.
8️⃣ Fix loose tiles, rugs, and steps — reduce fall risk for elders.
9️⃣ Label chemical bottles clearly — avoid accidental ingestion.
🔟 Switch off main power during sparks, floods, or heavy rain.
💡 Bonus: The 3 Golden Rules of DIY Safety
🔹 Observe: Notice hazards before they grow.
🔹 Act: Don’t delay small fixes — they save big lives.
🔹 Educate: Teach kids and staff safety basics every month.
🧭 Simple Monthly Home Safety Checklist
| Area | What to Check | DIY Fix |
|---|---|---|
| Kitchen | Gas pipe, stove gap, ventilation | Replace/clean immediately |
| Bedroom | Wiring, extension cords | Avoid multi-plug chains |
| Bathroom | Slippery tiles, geyser wiring | Use mat, fix leakage |
| Balcony | Railings, child access | Install safety grill |
| Storage | Combustible materials | Keep dry & away from heat |
🧩 Tools Every Home Should Have
🔧 Fire extinguisher (ABC type)
🔋 Torch + backup batteries
📞 Emergency contact chart
💉 First-aid kit (with burn ointment)
📛 Whistle / emergency alarm bell
⚡ Insulated gloves & pliers for electrical faults
(All available at low cost — but invaluable during crisis.)
📢 Systemic Lessons
India must:
- Promote community-based home safety programs under NDMA & local fire services.
- Introduce “Home Safety Certification” for residential buildings.
- Include DIY safety training in school and corporate workshops.
- Launch a national awareness week for citizen preparedness.
📣 Call to Action
🚨 Don’t wait for sirens — prevention starts at home.
👉 Take 10 minutes today: inspect, repair, rehearse.
Because real safety isn’t built — it’s maintained.
📎 References
- NDMA “Domestic Safety & Home Preparedness Report,” 2025
- Bureau of Indian Standards “Household Electrical and Fire Norms,” 2024
- NCRB “Residential Accident Data,” 2019–2024
- Ministry of Housing “Safe Homes Guidelines,” 2023
🔚 Closing Line
The smallest tools can save the biggest lives.
This is why we built HowToSurvive.in — to make every citizen a protector, not a spectator.