Fire Safety for Seniors

Each year, approximately 1,100 Americans ages 65 and older die as a result of a home fire. Compared to the rest of the U. S. population: People between 65 and 74 are nearly TWICE as likely to die in a fire. People between 75 and 84 are nearly FOUR times as likely to die in a fire. People ages 85 and older are more than FIVE times as likely to die in a fire. With a few simple steps, older people can dramatically reduce their risk of death and injury from fire. Prevent Fire. Save Lives.

For your well-being and others you love: Practice fire-safe behaviors when smoking, cooking and heating. Maintain smoke alarms, develop and practice a fire escape plan, and if possible, install home fire sprinklers. Smoke Safely Falling asleep while smoking can ignite clothing, rugs and other materials used in upholstered furniture. Using alcohol and medications that make you sleepy compound this hazard. Careless smoking is the leading cause of fire deaths and the second leading cause of injuries among people ages 65 and older. Cigarettes when not properly extinguished continue to burn. When a resting cigarette is accidentally knocked over, it can smolder for hours before a flare-up occurs

Never smoke in bed.

Put your cigarette or cigar out at the first sign of feeling drowsy while watching television or reading.

Use deep ashtrays and put your cigarettes all the way out.

Don’t walk away from lit cigarettes and other smoking materials. Cook Safely Many families gather in the kitchen to spend time together, but it can be one of the most hazardous rooms in the house if you don’t practice safe cooking behaviors. Cooking is the third leading cause of fire deaths and the leading cause of injury among people ages 65 and older. Never leave cooking unattended. A serious fire can start in just seconds.

Always wear short or tight-fitting sleeves when you cook.

Keep towels, pot holders and curtains away from flames.

Never use the range or oven to heat your home.

Double-check the kitchen before you go to bed or leave the house. The Get Out Alive Home Fire Safety Steps: Smoke Alarms: Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home, test batteries every month and change them at least once a year.

Home Fire Escape Plan: Develop and practice a fire escape plan regularly, at least twice a year. Keep exits clear of debris.

Home Fire Sprinklers: If at all possible, install residential sprinklers in your home.