Fire Safety For Seniors

10/4/2021 (Permalink)

According to statistics, people over the age of 65 are twice as likely to die or be injured in a fire. By age 75 that risk increases to three times, and by age 85, four times. People of all ages should practice and learn about fire safety. Knowing what to do will help save lives. 

SMOKE DETECTORS

A working smoke detector can more than double your chances of surviving a fire. 

• Be sure to have a smoke detector on every level of your home and in all sleeping areas
• Make sure everyone in your home can be awakened by the sound of the smoke detector. If someone is hearing impaired, invest in a smoke detector that uses flashing lights or some other visual aid.
• Test your smoke detectors once a month. If this is difficult for you, ask a neighbor or family member to assist you.
• Change your smoke detector batteries twice a year. A good rule of thumb to follow: change your clocks; change your smoke detector batteries.

FIRE ESCAPE PLANNING

Update your fire escape plan, especially if it’s the same one you have used for years.

• Sit down with all household members and discuss your fire escape plan.
• Plan at least two ways to get out of every room of your home, especially the bedrooms.
• Consider any limitations you may have that would keep you from implementing your plan.
• If any family member needs assistance, remember to plan accordingly.
• Make sure that your exits are wheelchair or walker accessible, if necessary.
• Put your plan to the test and practice it.

TIPS FOR SMOKERS

Careless smoking is the leading cause of fire deaths among Americans 65 years and older.

• Never smoke in bed
• Do not smoke if you are feeling drowsy, if you are drinking, or if you are taking medication that may make you drowsy
• Use large deep ashtrays and never leave smoking materials unattended
• Empty your ashtrays frequently, but never empty hot ashes in the garbage. Wet the contents of the ashtray and then dispose of them.

ELECTRICAL AND HEATING SAFETY

Always install and maintain heating and electrical equipment properly.

• Do not store newspapers, rags, or other combustible materials near a furnace, heater, or water heater.
• Do not run extension cords under furniture or rugs.
• Do not overload electrical outlets
• Be extremely cautious when using kerosene heaters. Never use any other fuel in kerosene heaters other than kerosene, and never refill when hot.
• If you are having an electrical or heating problem, call a trained professional to have the problem fixed properly.
• Keep at least three feet between space heaters and things like curtains, furniture, etc.

NEED HELP? CALL TODAY (856) 349-7318.