The school term is starting once again, and with it comes the usual flurry of packed lunches, school uniforms, and after-school routines. As families settle back into the rhythm of daily life, it's easy to overlook a vital part of home safety—keeping children safe around stairlifts.
Whether you're a grandparent helping with the school run or a parent with a multigenerational household, now is the perfect time to review stairlift safety measures at home. Children are naturally curious and energetic, but it is important that they understand that stairlifts are not toys.
With a few simple precautions, you can ensure your home remains both accessible and secure for every member of the family.
Why Stairlift Safety Matters for Children
Acorn stairlifts are designed to make life easier and safer for individuals with limited mobility, but like any piece of powered equipment, they require responsible use—especially when children are in the home. Kids may be tempted to play with the buttons, ride the stairlift unsupervised, or treat it like a climbing frame, which can lead to accidents.
That’s why back-to-school season is an ideal reminder to check your stairlift setup and reinforce safety habits.
6 Simple Tips for Keeping Kids Safe Around Stairlifts
1. Set Clear Rules for Stairlift Use
Children should never use a stairlift on their own. Make sure they understand it’s only for those who need it—and that it's not a toy. Clear, consistent rules help build respect for the equipment and prevent unnecessary risks.
2. Supervise Young Children Around the Stairlift
If little ones are in the home, keep an eye on them when they’re near the stairs or the stairlift. Even if the stairlift is turned off, they may try to climb or sit on it out of curiosity.
3. Keep the Remote Controls Out of Reach
Acorn stairlifts come with remote controls for convenience, but they should always be stored in a safe place, away from children’s reach. This simple step can prevent accidental activation.
4. Use the Key Switch to Disable the Stairlift When Not in Use
All Acorn stairlifts feature a key switch that allows you to disable the unit entirely. If your stairlift isn’t needed during the day, consider switching it off when children are home. This adds an extra layer of security and peace of mind.
5. Educate Your Children or Grandchildren
Older children are more likely to understand the importance of stairlift safety. Have a brief chat about how the stairlift works, why it's important, and how to behave around it respectfully. When they understand its purpose, they’re less likely to treat it as something to play with.
6. Schedule a Maintenance Check if Needed
The start of the school year is also a great time to ensure your stairlift is working properly. If you’ve noticed any unusual sounds or movement, or if it’s been a while since your last service, book a stairlift maintenance check with Acorn. A well-functioning stairlift is a safe stairlift.
Keeping Your Home Safe and Accessible for Everyone
Creating a safe environment for children doesn’t mean compromising on accessibility. With a few simple habits and the built-in safety features of every Acorn stairlift, you can keep your home welcoming for all ages—whether it’s a grandparent who relies on the lift or little ones racing through the hallway.
Because when school’s back in session, safety should always make the honour roll—start the term right with independence and peace of mind from Acorn Stairlifts.