Let's Retire Fire
A Factsheet for Older Americans
The facts speak for themselves: Americans over the age of 65 are one of
the groups at greatest risk of dying in a fire. Every year more than 1,000 Americans over
age 65 die in fires. People over the age of 80 die in fires at a rate three times higher
than the rest of the population. Many of these fatalities occur where there is no working
smoke detector. However, there are a number of precautionary steps older Americans can
take to dramatically reduce their chances of becoming a fire casualty.
The United States Fire Administration (USFA) offers these safety tips
to help reduce the threat of fire for older Americans.
UNDERSTANDING THE RISKS
Why Are Older People at Risk? Older Americans are at risk for fire
death and injuries for a number of reasons:
- They may be less able to take the quick action necessary in a fire
emergency.
- They may be on medication that affects their ability to make quick
decisions.
- Many older people live alone and when accidents happen others may not
be around to help.
What Fire Hazards Affect Older People?
- Cooking accidents are the leading cause of fire related injuries for
older Americans. The kitchen is one of the most active and potentially dangerous rooms in
the home. Cooking can mean danger where a loose sleeve could catch fire from the stove, or
a pot left on a burner can become a major fire if forgotten.
- The unsafe use of smoking materials is the leading cause of fire
deaths among older Americans.
- Heating equipment is responsible for a big share of fires in seniors'
homes. Extra caution should be used with alternate heaters such as wood stoves or electric
space heaters. Too often the heaters become a fire hazard, particularly when newspapers
and other combustibles are nearby.
- Faulty wiring is another major cause of fires affecting the elderly.
Older homes can have serious wiring problems, ranging from old appliances with bad wiring
to overloaded sockets.
SAFETY TIPS FOR OLDER AMERICANS
- Kitchen Fires. Most kitchen fires occur because food is left
unattended on the stove or in the oven. If you must leave the kitchen while cooking, turn
off the burners and take a spoon or potholder with you to remind you to return to the
kitchen. Never cook with loose, dangling sleeves. Robes and other loose-fitting garments
can ignite easily. Grease is extremely flammable; keep all cooking surfaces clean. Heat
cooking oils gradually and use extra caution when deep-frying. If a fire breaks out in a
pan, put a lid on the pan. Never throw water on a grease fire. Turn pot handles toward the
side of the range, and always use a potholder when reaching for handles. Never use a range
or stove to heat your home.
- Space Heaters. Buy only UL-approved heaters. Check your heaters often
to make sure they are in good condition. Burning fuel can produce deadly fumes; only use
them in well ventilated areas. Use only the manufacturer's recommended fuel for each
heater. Do not use electric space heaters in the bathroom or around other wet areas. Do
not dry or store objects on top of your heater. Keep combustibles away from heat sources.
- Wiring. Regularly inspect your extension cords for fraying, exposed
wires or loose plugs. They are not intended for use as permanent wiring. Unplug them when
not in use. If you need to plug in two or three appliances, do not use a simple extension
cord. It's better to get a UL-approved unit that has built-in circuit breakers. Never run
electric cords or extensions under rugs or in high traffic areas.
- Smoking. Don't leave smoking materials unattended. Don't put ashtrays
on arms of sofas or chairs where they can be easily knocked over. Use safety ashtrays with
wide lips. Empty all ashtrays into the toilet or a metal container every night before
going to bed. Never smoke in bed. Burning sheets and blankets may create a fire from which
escape may be impossible.
Finally, having a working smoke detector dramatically increases your
chances of surviving a fire. And remember to practice a home escape plan frequently with
your family.
For More Information Contact:
The United States Fire Administration
Office of Fire Management Programs
16825 South Seton Avenue
Emmitsburg, MD 21727
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