BackFIRE prevention is for everyone
Article submitted by Pueblo Fire Department Fire Prevention Bureau. They can be reached at 719-553-2830 or visit the website at www.pueblofire.org
Facts about fire in the United States: Older adults are at a higher risk of experiencing a fire in the home.
- Age 65 = Twice as likely
- Age 75 = Three times as likely
- Age 85 = Four times as likely
(Statistics are from NFPA)
- Over 1200 people over age 65 die each year due to fire.
- The leading causes of fire deaths:
1) Smoking
2) Misuse of space heaters
3) Cooking
4) Electrical problems
General Tips
- Have a smoke alarm on each level of your home and outside each sleeping area,
- Test your smoke alarms regularly.
- Test smoke alarm batteries each month and change the batteries every 6-12 months.
- Carbon Monoxide (CO) detectors on each level of your home.
- Keep glasses, a telephone, nightlights and mobility aids by your bed.
- Have an escape plan with two ways out of every room.
- Practice your escape plan regularly and with your visitors!
- In the event of a fire, use the stairs (do not use an elevator). If you live in assisted living facilities, check with the management office for escape plan procedures/policies.
- Check doors with the back of your hand before opening them.
- If a room is filled with smoke, crawl low under the smoke where it is easier to breathe.
- If fire gets on your clothing: STOP, DROP AND ROLL! If you need more information on fire safety/life safety issues please contact your local emergency agencies.