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According to the United States Fire Administration (USFA), the
fire death rate among people over the age of 65 is twice as high as
the national average. In addition, the fire death rate among people
between ages 75 and 85 is three times the national average and after
age 85, it increases to four times the national average. These
statistics are especially alarming when researchers estimate that by
2030, the 65 and older population will exceed 70 million people.
Adults 65 years and older can reduce their fire death rate by
changing five major fire safety habits: Change Smoke Alarm Batteries
Having a working smoke alarm can more than double your chances of
surviving a fire. Make sure alarms are installed on each level of
your home and outside all sleeping areas. If sleeping with bedroom
doors closed, the smoke alarms should be installed within each room.
Test each alarm monthly and replace the battery at least once a
year. Adults who are deaf or hard of hearing should invest in visual
aids such as alarms with strobe lights. Flashing or vibrating smoke
alarms should also be tested every month. Change or Update Escape
Routes Many older adults are still using escape routes that were
planned when the kids were in the house. Plan and practice your home
fire escape. Consider your capabilities when preparing escape
routes. Have two ways to get out of each room and if needed, make
sure all exits are accessible for walkers or wheelchairs.
Change Unsafe Smoking Habits
Careless smoking is the leading cause of fire deaths among Americans
65 years and older. Make sure that you are alert when you smoke and
never smoke in bed. When you are finished smoking, soak the ashes in
water before discarding them. Never leave smoking materials
unattended, and collect them in large deep ashtrays. Change Unsafe
Cooking Habits Cooking fires are the leading cause of fire injuries
among older adults. When using the stove, never leave cooking food
unattended. If you need to step away, turn it off. Also, wear
tight-fitting clothing when cooking over an open flame; a dangling
sleeve can catch fire easily. Keep towels and potholders away from
the flame. Change Unsafe Heating Practices Install and maintain
heating equipment correctly. Do not store newspapers, rags, or other
combustible materials near a furnace, hot water heater, or space
heater. Keep flammable materials, such as curtains or furniture, at
least three feet from space heaters. Never use a stove as a
substitute for a furnace or space heater.
For more information on senior fire safety or other fire safety
topics, write to the United States Fire Administration, Public Fire
Education, Building I, 16825 South Seton Avenue, Emmitsburg, MD
21727 or visit
http://www.usfa.fema.gov.
Published October 2002
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Putting a New Face on Fire Safety
