A bad fall on flat surfaces can do its fair share of damage, but staircase falls are even more dangerous because you fall further and your body can bang into each step on the way down. Every year, thousands of people are injured or killed by stair accidents. If you have crowds, older family members or small children moving up and down your stairs, here are a few "steps" you can take to make their journey a little safer.

Non Slip Stair Treads

One way to decrease the number of slips on your stairs is to install non slip stair treads. Whether your stairs are made of concrete, wood, metal, marble or other smooth materials, non slip stair treads can increase the friction between the stair and the rubber soles and socks that your family wears. In addition to increasing your family's safety, non slip stair treads will also protect the staircase itself and help it last longer. There are many different kinds of stair treads to choose from too which makes it easy to select treads with the right thickness, width, abrasive surfaces and color to best meet your needs.

Sturdy Handrails

Handrails are another great way to increase staircase safety. Make sure they are small enough to be gripped easily and that they are available on at least one (preferable) two sides of the staircase. Handrails provide added support that makes it easier to climb stairs. With handrails, both your arms and your legs share the work of getting to the top. In case of a fall, handrails also provide a great way to stop yourself.

Good Lighting

Lighting is important because it is easier to miss a step or trip over clutter when you can't see where your feet are going. Lighting should be strong and available all along the stairs and there should be switches at both ends of the staircase. After all, it won't be very useful to have lights all along the stairs if you can't even turn them on until you've already gotten to the other end of the staircase.

If you must have carpet on your stairs instead of non slip stair treads, be sure that it is a tight woven brand because fluffy and thick rugs contribute to slipping and tripping. Make sure that the carpet is well-secured to the staircase as well. Otherwise, you'll be taking a flying carpet ride with a very hard landing.