Florida Injury Prevention Programs for Seniors (FLIPS) Senior Fire Safety Senior Module

Learning Objectives understand the fire safety issues for seniors to include statistics, high risks/special considerations for seniors, and components of fire; be aware of fire hazards and how to prevent them; install, maintain and demonstrate proper use of safety devices. Upon completion of this program, you will be able to:

The Facts— National Statistics The risk of death for people age 65 and over is 3 times greater than adults under age 65. Why? – less able to take quick action – may be on medication that affects ability to make quick decisions – many live alone

Basic Fire Dynamics It takes 3 components to make a fire: – heat – fuel – oxygen

Fire Hazards That Affect YOU Cooking accidents Unsafe smoking Heating equipment Faulty wiring

Fire Quiz A pot on the stove is on fire… What Do You Do?

Home Fire Hazards— Eliminate Them! Conduct a home safety survey – Exterior hazards lighting, shrubbery, visible house numbers, etc. – Interior hazards survey each room of the house

Interior Home Fire Hazards— The Living Room Check use of extension cords – temporary/not under the carpet Fireplace/heating appliances – creosote free – fireplace screens – kerosene & space heaters (3 feet of space) Safe smoking practices

Interior Home Fire Hazards— The Kitchen The most dangerous room Check cords on electrical appliances – replace frayed or worn cords – unplug appliances when not in use Use safe cooking practices – never leave cooking unattended – pot handles/covers/microwaves – no storage in ovens Fire Extinguisher

Use of oxygen – shut off if fire starts No extension cords under rugs Safe smoking practices Know two ways out Accessible windows Burglar bars which are quick release to the inside of the window Interior Home Fire Hazards— The Bedroom

Hot water heater – thermostat at 120 degrees Fahrenheit – automatic shut-off Safety measures – non-skid strips – flashlights – grab bars/chairs – telephone Interior Home Fire Hazards— The Bathroom

Home Fire Hazards— Safety Devices Early warning devices – smoke alarms/heat detectors: Check monthly and change batteries 2 times a year. – carbon monoxide (CO) detectors: In a fire, most people die from CO. Safety measures – lifeline alerts – residential sprinklers – fire resistive clothing/upholstery

Home Fire Hazards— Escape Plan: Exit Drills In The Home (E.D.I.T.H.) Know 2 ways out of each room. Designate a meeting place outside. Discuss what to do about family pets. Have a chain ladder for 2-story homes. Practice it!

Get low and go Get out fast Once out, stay out Call from a neighbor’s home If burned, run cold water over the burn. – Don’t use home remedies like butter. The Fire Plan— What To Do In The Event of a Fire

When it comes to fire… Don’t be scared- Be prepared !