Ensuring safety within your Bali home is paramount, blending modern construction practices with an awareness of local conditions. This guide offers a detailed look at potential hazards and provides a checklist to help you safeguard your property and loved ones.

Identifying Potential Risks

Everyday life presents numerous potential hazards, especially within and around our homes. Understanding these risks is the first step toward creating a safer environment. Consider the following points to identify areas of concern in your Bali home:

• Slippery Surfaces: Floors, especially in areas prone to moisture like bathrooms, can pose a risk. Using non-slip tiles is crucial to prevent falls.
• Glass Hazards: Traditional glass can be dangerous if broken. Safety glass should be used for doors and panels in bathrooms or other exposed areas.
• Electrical Dangers: Electrical safety is paramount. Avoid placing electrical sockets in bathrooms, and ensure all electrical circuits are properly earthed. Additionally, circuits should be checked, especially if the property has an alang alang roof. Regularly inspect power cords, especially for appliances like irons.
• Water Quality: Water sources need careful management. Test your water for mineral or bacterial contamination. Avoid drinking tap water and use bottled water for drinking and cleaning your teeth. Check regularly that your septic tank is not leaking.
• Food Safety: In Bali’s tropical climate, food safety is crucial. Do not eat leftovers.
• Gas Safety: Gas cylinders should be stored outside or in well-ventilated areas. Always turn off the gas after cooking. If you smell gas, avoid using a naked flame or switching on electrical devices.
• Structural Concerns: Steep steps can be hazardous. Ensure balustrades are in place along drops that are more than a normal step high. Avoid sharp edges on floors, steps, tables, and chairs. Check your property for cracks and other signs of damage. Be aware of heavy masonry elements that could fall during an earthquake.
• Ceiling Fans and Water Heaters: Ensure ceiling fans are not set too low. Hot water heaters should not be set higher than 65 degrees, and the hot tap should always be on the left.
• Pool Safety: If your property has a pool, place fences around it to keep children out. Make sure the pool has an easy way to get out.
• Fire Safety: Keep a fire extinguisher handy and ensure that it works properly. Check your furnishings to make sure they are not made of highly inflammable material.
• Security: Ensure door locks are effective but still allow for quick escape in case of a fire.

Home Safety Checklist

Use this checklist to help ensure your Bali home is as safe as possible:

• Use non-slip tiles in wet areas.
• Install safety glass in exposed locations.
• Avoid electrical sockets in bathrooms.
• Test your water for contaminants.
• Do not drink tap water.
• Ensure your septic tank is not leaking.
• Do not eat leftovers in the tropics.
• Keep gas cylinders in well-ventilated areas.
• Avoid excessively steep steps.
• Ensure ceiling fans are at a safe height.
• Turn off gas after cooking.
• Pull plugs out when leaving home.
• Get your electrical circuits checked.
• Install balustrades on elevated areas.
• Avoid sharp edges on furniture and structures.
• Ensure all electrical circuits are earthed.
• Set water heater to 65 degrees or lower.
• Ensure the hot tap is on the left.
• Avoid glass in low door panels.
• Fence swimming pools to keep children away.
• Provide easy pool exits.
• Keep a working fire extinguisher available.
• Choose non-flammable furnishings.
• Do not use metal to get objects out of a toaster.
• Do not use an open flame to find gas leaks.
• Do not switch on any electrical devices if you smell gas.
• Check appliance cords regularly.
• Inspect your house for cracks and damage.
• Remove any heavy masonry that could fall.
• Always wear a helmet while riding a motorbike.
• Consider having a guard dog.
• Ensure you have effective door locks that allow quick escape.
• Do not confront an intruder, let them take what they want and leave.
• Avoid keeping dangerous dog breeds.
• Keep beer on the bottom shelf of the fridge.
• Ensure you can afford health insurance.

Staying Safe in Bali

By addressing these points, property owners in Bali can greatly reduce everyday risks. Home safety requires consistent vigilance and adherence to these guidelines. Prioritizing these aspects will ensure a comfortable and secure environment for everyone.