Fire safety advice for Senior Citizens

Smoke alarms

• It is essential to fit a smoke alarm to gain those precious few minutes of warning which could help you get out of your home safely
• Fit smoke alarms which meet British Standard 5446. They cost from around £5.00 each, are easy to install and are widely available from DIY stores, builders merchants, electrical and hardware shops. Some voluntary agencies may be able to assist
• People with a hearing impairment which is not too severe are often able to hear a conventional smoke alarm. It is a good idea to link two or more alarms, this way smoke detected in the living room will set off another alarm in the bedroom. An electrician will be able to advise you about linking the alarms
• For people who would not be able to hear a conventional smoke alarm there are special devices available which make use of a vibrating pad and/or flashing light instead of the audible signal.
  

Read some more fire safety advice on smoke alarms

Around the home

There are many dangers around the home, some of these are highlighted here;

• Chip pans
• Electric sockets
• Heated blankets
• Portable heaters
• Open fires
• Smoking - Especially in bed!
• Take care all the time - GET A SMOKE ALARM!

Read some more general advice around the home

Plan your escape route in advance

• Make sure that your planned escape route remains free of any obstructions and that there are no loose floor coverings that could trip you up .
• If you have a serious mobility difficulty you may wish to consider having your bedroom on the ground floor, if this is practical, and as near as possible to an exit
• If you would need assistance to make your escape, it is vital that you have some means of summoning help by your bed, i.e. a buzzer, intercom or telephone
• If possible, close the door of the room where the fire is and close all doors behind you as you leave. This will help delay the spread of fire and smoke
• Do you have guests staying such as grandchildren. If so what provision have you made for them in case of fire
• Before opening a closed door use the back of your hand to touch it. Don't open it if it feels warm - the fire will be on the other side
• Get every one out as quickly as possible
• Don't try to pick up valuables or possessions
• Make your way out as safely as you can and try not to panic
• Smoke rises so stay low where it is easier to breath
• Telephone the Fire Brigade on 999 from a neighbour's house or a telephone box. How to make a 999 call
• Never go back into the house until a Fire Officer has told you it is safe to do so

Find out more about making a fire plan

GET OUT - GET THE FIRE BRIGADE OUT - STAY OUT

Click here to access our Eldery and Vulnerable People Strategy