Fire Safety Article

Older Adults Face Higher Risk of Fire Death and Injury

Older adults are the fastest growing segment of the American population and they are at the highest risk for fire-related deaths. Based on 1995-1999 annual averages, adults 65 and older face a risk twice the overall average, while people 85 and older have a risk that is 4½ times the average, according to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). During 2005, more than one-third of fire fatalities were people over age 60. Statistics from the National Fire Incident Reporting System show that two out of every three fire deaths in the elderly occur when the victim is sleeping or trying to escape. This demonstrates the importance of preparing and practicing an escape plan and adjusting that plan to take into consideration the physical capabilities of older adults.

Older adults may have decreased mobility and other health issues that prohibit a quick response during a fire emergency. Many older adults take multiple medications that could lead to a slower response or confusion, altering the decision-making process. The impairments caused by the combination of alcohol and prescription drugs in older adults can further impede judgment and escape. Such impairments may also lead to an increased likelihood of accidentally starting a fire or not detecting a fire in its early stages.

"Often, a family member, caregiver or neighbor may need to help an older adult safely exit the home. Addressing these issues before a fire occurs is essential," said Allen Lorenz, Montana State Fire Marshal. Lorenz said the U.S. Fire Administration has recommendations for older adults and the people close to them.

Install and maintain smoke alarms

• Make sure smoke alarms are installed on each level of the home and outside all sleeping areas.
• Test them monthly and replace the batteries at least once a year.
• Caregivers are encouraged to check the smoke alarms for those who are unable to do it themselves. The chances of surviving a home fire almost double with the initial warning from a smoke alarm.

Plan the escape

• Each fire-escape plan must consider each person's physical capabilities.
• People who use a walker or wheelchair should check all exits to be sure they fit through the doorways. If needed, any necessary accommodations – like providing exit ramps and widening doorways – should be made to assist with an emergency escape.
• Adults – or their caregivers – should know at least two exits from every room.
• Unless instructed by the fire department, residents should never use an elevator during a fire.

Don't be isolated

• Seniors should speak to family members, a building manager or neighbors about their fire safety plan and practice it with them.
• They should contact the local fire department's non-emergency line and explain their special needs.
• The fire department will probably suggest escape-plan ideas and may perform a home fire-safety inspection and offer suggestions about smoke alarm placement and maintenance.
• Seniors should ask emergency providers to keep their special needs information on file.

Live near an exit

• In apartment buildings, older adults will be safest on the ground floor.
• In a multi-story home, they should try to have their bedrooms on the ground floor, near an exit.

Be fire safe

• The leading cause of residential fire deaths among older adults is careless smoking.
• No one should smoke in bed or near an oxygen source, gas stove or other flammable object.
• When cooking, older adults should not approach an open flame while wearing loose clothing, and should not leave cooking unattended. A timer can be a reminder of food in the oven.
• Electrical outlets or extension cords should not be overloaded.
• The oven should never be used to heat the home. Chimneys and space heaters should be properly maintained.
• Anyone who takes medication that may cause drowsiness should take special precautions.

"Fire safety is everyone's responsibility. Taking advantage of modern technology by installing a residential sprinkler system is an option worth exploring, especially for people with mobility issues," added Lorenz.