Seniors and Fire Safety

Seniors still living at home, and those caring for them, need to be reminded about the risks of fire, and how they should deal with them.

Seniors with weaker or limited physical (and sometimes mental) abilities may find it harder to respond to, or even identify a fire. In reality, cognitive changes ranging from memory loss to dimentia can pose more of a hazard than a physical disability. These individuals may not even realize they are in danger Adding to the risks would be the consumption of alcohol or the side effects of prescription drugs.

Seniors living on a fixed income may feel they cannot afford the necessary repairs and adaptations needed to ensure safe and independent living. These necessary repairs and adaptations should include things like installing safety aids and replacing outdated appliances and electrical devices. Making sure there is an emergency evacuation plan should also be a priority.

Friends and family may need to come together and help out the senior if finances are not available to the senior. Use birthdays, anniversaries, and other holidays to purchase or repair items for the safety of your senior.

There are six fire safety priorities the Canada Safety Council recommends to help protect the senior population against fire in the home.

Install Smoke Alarms

It is the law in parts of Canada that a smoke alarm be installed on each level of the house and outside the sleeping areas. In addition, individuals who sleep with the bedroom door shut must have a smoke alarm installed inside the bedroom. And, remember to check the batteries on a monthly basis. For seniors who are hearing impaired, consider installing flashing or vibrating alarms.

Plan an Escape Route

Update escape routes with the current abilities of the senior in mind, and practice with them. Help them keep hallways and stairways uncluttered. Tell the senior to dial 911 from a neighbor's house, and not to go back inside their own home. However, if they cannot leave their home, they still need to dial 911. Install a telephone by the senior's bed, and encourage them to place their slippers, house keys, and a flashlight there also.

Careless Smoking