The Facts Speak for Themselves
Americans over the age of 65 make up one of the groups at greatest risk of dying in a fire.
On average, more than 1,000 Americans ages 65 and up die in fires annually. People over the age of 85 die in fires at a rate nearly five times higher than that of the rest of the population.
However, there are a number of precautionary steps older adults can take to dramatically reduce their chances of becoming fire casualties.
Why Are Seniors 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 actions 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.
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 and electric space heaters.
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 being cooked is left unattended. If you must leave the kitchen while cooking, take a spoon or potholder with you to remind you to return to the kitchen. Never cook with loose clothing that can ignite easily. Heat cooking oils gradually and use extra caution when deep-frying.
Space Heaters – Buy only heaters evaluated by a nationally recognized laboratory such as Underwriters Laboratories (UL). Use only the manufacturer’s recommended fuel for each heater. Keep combustibles away from heat sources.
Smoking – Don’t leave smoking materials unattended. 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. Never smoke near or while using oxygen.
Statistics
People ages 65-75 years are twice as likely as the general population to be killed in a house fire.
People ages 76-85 are three times as likely to be killed in a house fire.
People ages 86 and older are four and a half times as likely to be killed in a house fire.
Fire Department Open House
Oct. 13, 2013
1-3 p.m.
8700 Refugee Rd.
Highlights include:
- The Fire Safety House, which puts children into a non-hazardous smoke-filled environment to teach them how to get out of their homes in case of fire;
- Demonstrations on how to get down and crawl under smoke;
- The opportunity to use a real fire hose;
- Coupons for free smoke detector batteries and other goodies;
- The chance to purchase or order a fire escape ladder for your second floor area;
- Balloons, snacks and an appearance by Sparky the Fire Dog; and
- Picture opportunities for kids dressed up in fire gear.
VTF Toy Drive
That’s right! It’s time to start thinking about the annual Violet Township Fire Department toy drive. Kickoff is Nov. 22, and it runs through Dec. 22.
New, unwrapped toys are requested. Remember that it takes a little time for your toy to go from your generous hands into the hands of a child. Please donate early to ensure that your toy is received.
Donation boxes will be placed around the area starting Nov. 22.
Contact Jimmy Barber at 614-837-4123 for more information.
