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Senior Citizens
Fire Safety Facts for People 50-Plus
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According to the United States Fire Administration:
- People between 65 and 74 are nearly TWICE as likely to die in a fire
- People between 75 and 84 are nearly FOUR times as likely to die in a fire
- People 85 and older are more than FIVE times as likely to die in a fire
The best way to avoid becoming a statistic is to follow these simple safety guidelines for people 50-Plus:
- Smoke Safely - Never smoke in bed and always extinguish cigarettes or cigars before taking medication that might make you drowsy.
- Use deep ashtrays and always put smoking materials out. Also be sure not to walk away from lit cigarettes or cigars.
- Never lave cooking unattended and always wear short or tight-fitting sleeves when you cook.
- Keep towels, pot holders, curtains and anything else that can burn away from flames and the stove area.
- Make sure to give space heaters enough space - this means keeping all items at least three (3) feet away from the heater. Also, make sure you use a heater that automatically shuts off when tipped over.