FIRE SAFETY FOR OLDER ADULTS

fire safety; older adults
FIRE ESCAPE
  • Know 2 ways out of every room. 
  • If smoke alarm sounds, get outside and call 9-1-1.
  • Stay low and crawl under smoke to safety.
ABILITIES
  • Keep the following items near your bed in case of an emergency:
    • Phone
    • Medications
    • Glasses
    • Walker, Cane, Wheelchair, Scooter
    • Flashlight and Whistle (to signal for help if needed)
SPACE HEATER

 

  • Keep space heaters at least 3 feet away from anything that can burn.
  • Shut off and unplug heaters when you leave the room or go to bed.
  • Always plug space heaters directly into a wall outlet. NEVER into an extension cord or power strip.
SMOKE ALARM DISABILITIES

 

  • Bed shakers and strobe smoke alarms are available for those that are hard of hearing. 
  • Call our office if you are in need of a specialized smoke alarm.
SMOKE OUTSIDE
  • If you smoke, smoke outside. 
  • Use large, deep, and sturdy ashtrays. Wet cigarette butts and ashes before throwing them out. 
  • Never smoke in bed.
  • Never smoke is medical oxygen is used in the home. 
KITCHEN SAFETY
  • Stand by your pan, stay in the kitchen when frying or sauteeing. If you leave the kitchen, even for a short time, turn off the burner. 
  • Use a timer when cooking, and take it with you if you as a reminder you are cooking. 
  • If a pan of food catches fire, slide a lid or cookie sheet over it and turn off the burner. 
  • Do not cook if you are drowsy from alcohol or medication. And avoid cooking when taking new medication until you know how it will affect you.
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