Safety check for the cottage

On the road

• Reserve enough time for the journey. Also account for breaks.
• The least tired drives – never under the influence of alcohol.
• Check the condition of the vehicle, the tyre pressure in particular.
• Pack your luggage in the boot and tie it down, if necessary. Reserve the passenger area for passengers only.
• Be flexible in traffic.
• Make sure that the passenger seat belts and any safety equipment are appropriately secured.

Arriving at the cottage

• Make sure that the smoke alarms work. A smoke alarm should be located at least in all bedrooms, the living room and at exits.
• Show your guests how to exit the cabin in an emergency.
• Make sure that the fire extinguishing equipment is in working order.
• Make sure that everyone knows the address of the cottage and that the coordinates are available.

Outdoors

• Keep pathways in the yard easily accessible and well-lit.
• Keep a phone with you when you go outside.
• Wear sturdy outdoor footwear of the right size and with good grip.

Performing cottage chores

• Make sure that your cottage chores are relative to your physical condition and state of health.
• Use safety equipment.
• Plan your chores to ensure that you do not fall or hurt yourself.
• Only use undamaged tools.
• Enjoy a beer only after completing your chores.

Working remotely at the cottage

• Check that your working environment is safe.
• Check that the charger cords are intact.
• Change your working position now and then.
• Take regular breaks.

Around the grill or open fire

• Keep children away from grills and open fires.
• Do not light an open fire while a forest fire warning is in effect.
• When you light an open fire, you are responsible for keeping an eye on it and putting it out.
• Regularly check the condition of gas grill hoses and valves.
• Protect your grill from the wind.
• Make sure that the grill stays firmly in place and is located in a fire safe area.
• Allow the embers to fully die out before closing the dampers.

With children

• Explain to the children where they can move on their own.
• Make sure that no one can fall into rain barrels or wells.
• Consider other possible risk factors, such as rocks or trees.

At the beach and on the water

• Keep constant watch of children by the water.
• Do not go swimming on your own.
• Swim along the shoreline so that you can stand up in the water at all times.
• Do not dive into unknown waters.
• Keep a piece of rescue equipment available.
• Always wear a lifejacket when on the water.
• Alcohol should not be consumed while on the water.

Other notes

• Check that the cottage has appropriate first aid equipment.
• Take good care of your underlying health needs.
• Check that you have your prescription medication and other necessary non-prescription drugs with you.
• Ensure that you have the 112 Suomi mobile app if you are using a smartphone. Make sure that you know how to use the app.
• Make sure that you can call for aid in case of an accident even when you are alone at the cottage.