Your front door is the first step into your home and one of the most overlooked spots when it comes to fall prevention. Whether you're coming in with groceries, heading out for a walk, or greeting a guest, your entryway should support you, not surprise you. Slippery steps, cluttered thresholds, and poor lighting can turn a simple moment into a dangerous fall.
The good news is that a safer entryway is easy to create. With just a few small changes, you can reduce risks, feel more confident, and start and end your day on steady feet.
Why Entryways Matter
Most people focus on fall-proofing areas like the bathroom or kitchen, but the doorway deserves just as much attention. You move through it every day. It’s where you carry things, check the mail, and welcome visitors. And if your hands are full or your eyes are adjusting to the light, a small hazard can quickly become a big problem.
Common entryway risks include:
- Uneven steps or walkways
- Loose welcome mats
- Dim lighting
- Clutter near the door
- Slippery surfaces from rain or snow
Fortunately, each of these has a simple fix.
1. Improve Lighting Around the Door
Low lighting can hide steps, edges, and obstacles.
What you can do:
- Install a bright porch light that clearly lights your steps and lock
- Use motion-sensor lights for automatic visibility at night
- Add a lamp or wall light inside the door to brighten the threshold
2. Clear the Path
Leaves, mail, shoes, or garden tools near the door can be easy to trip over.
What you can do:
- Keep the area free from clutter, both inside and outside
- Use a small bench or shelf to organize shoes, bags, or packages
- Place a basket nearby for mail instead of leaving it on the floor
3. Choose the Right Doormats
Thick or curling mats may cause more harm than good.
What you can do:
- Use low-profile mats with a rubber backing that won’t slip
- Avoid mats with curled edges or bulky ridges
- Secure indoor mats with non-slip grips or rug tape
4. Tame the Threshold
Door frames that rise too high or are hard to see can become tripping hazards.
What you can do:
- Add a strip of contrasting tape or paint to make the threshold easier to spot
- If your door has a step-up or lip, consider a small ramp or rubber transition strip
- Practice stepping over slowly and with control, especially when carrying something
5. Add a Grab Bar or Rail
Support makes all the difference when entering or exiting your home.
What you can do:
- Install a sturdy handrail next to any steps or stoops
- Use a vertical grab bar inside the door for balance while removing shoes
- Choose bars that are easy to grip and made for outdoor or indoor use
6. Watch the Weather
Rain, snow, or even morning dew can turn your steps or porch into a slippery surface.
What you can do:
- Use textured, slip-resistant mats outside the door
- Add weather stripping or a drip guard above the entryway to reduce puddles
- Keep a broom or mop nearby to clear wet areas quickly
7. Create a Safe Landing Zone Inside
The spot just inside your door should be just as safe as outside.
What you can do:
- Keep a chair nearby to sit while removing shoes
- Use an umbrella stand or towel to contain drips
- Make sure the floor inside the door isn’t slippery, especially during wet weather
Small Fixes, Big Peace of Mind
Fall prevention isn’t only about what happens inside your home. By taking a few minutes to assess your entryway, you can remove hazards before they cause harm. These simple changes give you more control, more comfort, and more confidence every time you leave or come home.
Learn More
Want more practical tips to make your home safer? Explore fall-prevention classes on GetSetUp and learn how to create a safer, more supportive environment for everyday life.