Fire Safety Tips for Seniors

Older adults are the fastest growing segment of the population and also one of the groups at highest risk for fire death and injury. With slower mobility and responses, less keen sense of sight and hearing, and drowsiness due to medications, seniors are more prone to accidents like fires. When you are over 65, you are twice as likely to be killed or hurt by fires while when you are over 75 your chances are doubled some more.

To prevent these disasters and to avoid becoming victims just because you are part of the aging population, follow these fire safety tips for seniors:

Install and maintain smoke alarms.
Pay attention to your cooking.
Heat your home safely.
Practice electrical safety.
Keep matches and lighters away from children.
Use candles safely.
Know what to do in case of a fire.

Source: Fire Safety Checklist for Older Adults

January 31, 2013 Home Safety NJ