There has been an increasing rate of fire hazards happening in the US. According to a study in 2018, 40% of these fire incidents involve an older adult. This can be a result of complications like dementia, hearing loss, reduced mobility, complications with eyesight, and many more.
These fire safety tips will ensure your loved ones avoid fire occurrences while in assisted living in Park Cities, TX:
Careful While Smoking
This is one of the primary reasons older adults get caught up in fire. It is advisable that your loved ones don’t smoke in bed or even quit smoking. Also, they must avoid smoking with an oxygen tank around. If your loved ones compulsorily need to smoke, it should be done outside to decrease the possible risk of a fire outbreak.
And if it should be done indoors, your older adult should endeavor to use deep ashtrays to ensure it doesn’t fall off the table. In addition, while putting out the cigarette, your loved ones should use water to snuff the smoke.
Fire Extinguishers
According to safety measures in assisted living centers, your loved ones are meant to have fire extinguishers around.
It can be in the kitchenettes, fireplace, or furnace room. Ensure your loved ones check them out once a month to guarantee they are still functional.
It is important to note that your loved ones should avoid placing these fire extinguishers near the stove in the kitchenettes
Installing Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are highly important in every home and ensure your loved ones have them installed in every room. People with smoke alarms are more likely to survive fire hazards than people without alarms.
In addition, ensure your loved ones test the smoke alarm once every month to ensure it is still functional. To check whether it’s working well, the alarm must ring loudly, and a strobe warning and other warning signals that have been Installed.
If your loved ones have complications with their vision, hearing, and movement then install an advanced smoke alarm that has a single control for all smoke alarms.
Do Not Leave Food Unattended To
Never for a second should your loved ones leave cooking unattended. While cooking with an oven or stove your older adult must ensure their movement out of the kitchenettes is limited. Even if they have to leave the kitchenettes, your loved ones must off all burners prior to leaving.
This is especially vital when your cooking includes oil that can spill and catch fire.
Use Electric Candles
Older adult loves the atmosphere burning candles create in the home. However, distractions can make them forget about the candles. If your loved ones must use a candle, ensure they use electronic alternatives to reduce the risk of a fire outbreak.
Replace Your Old Space Heater
Space heaters should position far away from anything that can easily catch on fire. Your loved ones should use a space heater that can automatically shut off. If their space heater does not have an automatic shutoff, setting alarms or reminders will help them remember.
