FIRE SAFETY FOR OLDER ADULTS

National Fire Protection Association [NFPA] statistics show that people age 65 and older are twice as likely to die in a home fire. The following fire tips are provided by the NFPA and can greatly reduce the risk of being injured or dying in a home fire.

Smoking: Use large, deep ashtrays. Wet cigarette ashes and butts before emptying ashtrays into the trashcan. NEVER smoke when you are in bed, drowsy or laying down.

Space heaters: Give space heaters space. Keep them at least three feet away from anything, including you. Always unplug the heater when you shut it of, leave your home or when you go to bed.

Kitchen: Be kitchen wise. Wear tight-fitting or rolled-up sleeves when cooking. Always use oven mitts to handle hot pans. If a pan or pot catches fire, slide a lid over it, turn off the burner and call 911 [Let the Fire Department verify the fire is completely out]. Do not cook when you are drowsy from alcohol or medication.

Stop, Drop, and Roll: If your clothes catch on fire, stop [do not run!], drop gently to the ground, cover your face with your hands and roll over and over to smother the flames. If you can not drop and roll, smother the flames with a towel or blanket. Immerse burns in cool water for 10-15 minutes. If your burns are severe, call 911 for medical attention.

Smoke Alarm: Smoke alarms save lives. Have your smoke alarms installed outside all bedrooms and on every level of your home. Test your smoke alarms once a month and make sure you can hear your smoke alarm. The Fire Department will assist you with installation and testing.

Escape Route: Plan and practice your escape route. Plan two ways to escape from every room. Make sure windows and doors open easily. Once you get out, STAY OUT.

9-1-1: Know the emergency number. In case of a fire, call 911 from a neighbor’s house. You may want to write 911 on your handset.

Abilities: Plan your escape around your abilities. Have a telephone in your bedroom. You may want to keep a whistle by your bed so you can alert someone where you are. Always keep your glasses with you or near you.