Safety Precautions That Make All The Difference Before Having Overnight Guests

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There's a certain art to hosting overnight guests, and their safety should be just as much a priority as their comfort. A thoughtful host doesn't just provide fresh sheets, plenty of fluffy towels, extra blankets, and even a few snacks. Creating a tranquil and visitor-ready guest room also means taking steps to ensure your company feels safe and secure. From offering adequate night lighting to keep unfamiliar spaces accessible to anticipating health needs and childproofing measures, there are several safety precautions that make all the difference before having overnight guests.

It's a good idea to start with the basics, especially if your guest room is located in a basement, attic, or rarely used room. Check that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries to avoid startling beeps or alarms that wake the whole house and make for a very awkward breakfast the next morning. You should also make sure each space is well-lit. There are tons of attractive night lights that won't ruin your home's aesthetic but will ensure your guests can find their way to the bathroom without stubbing a toe. Keeping a small lamp next to the bed is another great idea. You may even want to offer an adjustable choice like the JALL Sunrise Sleepers Wake Up Light from Amazon that doubles as an alarm clock and radio. Making sure any long hallways or staircases are adequately illuminated is also important. Guests sneaking into the kitchen for a midnight snack won't want to wake everyone up by flicking on the overhead lights, so consider installing motion-sensing low lights along any long hallways or staircases.

It's been said that fish and visitors both stink after three days, and that some guests bring happiness by coming, and others by going. No matter how long you plan on hosting, it's a good idea to give a quick demonstration of how your home security system works. Some of the best smart locks will even let you create temporary access codes for your guests that expire as soon as they head back home. For older guests, a traditional key may be less intimidating. You can also consider adding a nonslip mat to the bathtub or incorporating a shower chair that keeps your bathroom stylish and safer for elderly or mobility-limited visitors.

When your guests are on the young or furry side, their travel-weary parents are likely to breathe a sigh of relief at the sight of safety gates and simple outlet covers. Plenty of pint-sized towels and a basic first aid kit are ideal additions to a small welcome kit, if you're providing one. Remember to move any cleaning supplies out of reach, especially if you're expecting visitors under the age of six. If you typically store supplies below the bathroom sink and just don't have room for them elsewhere, quickly install a baby lock like the Skyla Homes Child Safety Cabinet Proofing Latches from Amazon. Firearms should also be securely locked away, unloaded, and with ammunition stored separately. And, if you have a pool, make sure it's alarmed and that you review the "house rules" before anyone takes a dip. By taking these small steps, you can easily make sure your home is safe for overnight guests.