Fire Safety for Older Adults

People & places

Knowing what to do in the event of a fire is particularly important for older adults. At age 65, people are twice as likely to be killed or injured by fires compared to the population at large. And with our numbers growing every year — in the United States and Canada, adults age 65 and older make up about 12 percent of the population — it’s essential to take the necessary steps to stay safe.

Quick Fire Safety Tips for Older Adults

Keep it low: If you don’t live in an apartment building, consider sleeping in a room on the ground floor to make emergency escape easier. Make sure smoke alarms are installed in every sleeping room and outside sleeping areas. Have a telephone installed where you sleep in case of emergency.
Sound the alarm: The majority of fatal fires occur when people are sleeping, and smoke can put you into a deeper sleep rather than waking you. If anyone in your household is deaf or has diminished hearing, consider a smoke alarm that uses a flashing light or vibration.
Do the drill: Conduct your own, or participate in, regular fire drills. If you or someone you live with cannot escape alone, designate a household member to assist, and decide on backups in case they aren’t home.
Open up: Make sure you are able to open all doors and windows in your home. If you have security bars, they should have emergency release devices inside so they can be opened easily.
Stay connected: Keep a telephone nearby, along with emergency phone numbers, so you can communicate with emergency personnel if you’re trapped by fire or smoke.