AWARENESS CAMPAIGN FOR OUR SENIOR CITIZENS

Why are Older People at Risk?

• They may be less able to take the quick action necessary in an emergency.
• They may be on medication that affects their ability to make quick decisions.
• Many older people live alone and when accidents happen others may not be around to help.

The Statistics We Need to change :

• People between 65 and 74 are nearly twice as likely to die in a home fire as the rest of the population.
• People between 75 and 84 are nearly four times as likely to die in a fire.
• People ages 85 and older are more than five times as likely to die in a fire.

The People 50-Plus Campaign Strategy:

---A Fire Safety Campaign for people 50-Plus encourages people ages 50 and older - including the high risk 65-plus group - to practice fire- safe behaviours to reduce fire deaths and injuries. The strategy is to inform and motivate adults as they enter their 50's so that stronger fire-safety and prevention practices are integrated into their lives prior to entering the higher fire-risk decades. In addition , many Baby Boomers are currently caring for family members ages 65- plus and can encourage fire safe habits.

Messages That Will Make A Difference :

As part of the fire service, you know firsthand that older people most often suffer fire, death and injury because of careless smoking, cooking or heating.These are the messages that we must drive home, beginning with people ages 50-plus:

• Use Smoking Materials Safely:Don't smoke in bed, while drowsy from medications or alcohal or when you are just plain sleepy.Use large, deep ashtrays for smoking debris, and put your cigarette or cigar all the way out.Don't walk away from a lit cigarette.
•   Pay attention to your Cooking:Turn pot handles inward, and keep cooking surfaces clutter-free.Don't wear loose clothing while cooking and never leave cooking unattented.Double-check the kitchen before you go to bed or leave the house.
• Heat Your Home Safely:Keep flammable materials atleast three feet from heaters.When buying the space heater, look for a control feature that automatically shuts off the power if the heater fails over.Make sure you have a fire place screen large enough to catch flying sparks and rolling logs.
• Install and Maintain Smoke Alarms:Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home, test batteries every month, and change them atlest once a year.                                          
• Home Fire Escape Plan: Develop and practice your own fire escape plan regularly, atleast twice a year.Keep exits clear of debris.
• Install Home Fire Sprinklers:If at all possible, install residential fire sprinklers in your home.

  FIRE-FIGHTING  HOME FIRE