VISITING ANGELS EAST CENTRAL, INDIANA 765-778-3434
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Senior Care: Fire Safety Tips for Seniors in Anderson, IN and the Surrounding Area

Senior Care: Fire Safety Tips for Seniors in Anderson, IN and the Surrounding Area

”Knowledge is power” may be an old adage, but in the case of senior care, fire prevention knowledge can be life-saving as well.

 

Did you know adults over the age of 65 are at greater risk of suffering serious or fatal injuries from a house fire? In fact, seniors represent 40% of all fire-related deaths in the U.S. Risk factors include decreased mobility, hearing or sight loss, mental impairments and limitations, and other age-related causes.

It’s critical for older adults and their families to know how to prevent potential fires and what to do if a fire erupts. Visiting Angels East Central Indiana believes that one of the most important components to senior care is to make your senior’s home safe.

Fire Prevention Recommendations

If your loved one is elderly and/or living alone, it is important to consider basic safety tips to reduce the risk of fires, or injuries in the case of a fire.

When you consider their senior care, consider the following in the case of a fire emergency as well

  • An Escape Plan
    Your loved one should know where their home or building’s exits are and practice navigating to a safe spot in the event of a fire. If possible, try to arrange for him or her to live on a ground floor or near an exit. If your loved one is hearing impaired or has other special needs, purchase a medical alert system, such as Visiting Angels’ Constant Companion, that he or she can activate to contact 9-1-1 during an emergency.
  • A Path
    If your loved one uses a wheelchair or walker, make sure doors are wide enough, and ramps are available so he or she can escape safely.
  • Fire extinguishers
    Fire extinguishers can be complicated to operate and eventually expire. Verify your loved one (and a caregiver) know how to use these safety devices, and keep them up to date.
  • Smoke detectors
    For those who have vision or hearing limitations, smoke detectors are available that produce low, audible tones; flashing lights; or even bed vibrations to alert individuals of smoke and fire.

Other fire safety tips for seniors and family caregivers include:

  • Don’t leave stoves or ranges unattended
  • Never use the range or oven to heat the home
  • Avoid wearing loose clothing when using the stovetop
  • Make sure all kitchen appliances are off before leaving the house or going to bed
  • Have lids handy for grease fires
  • Avoid smoking in bed
  • Smoke outside and use heavy ashtrays filled with water or sand
  • Avoid smoking near oxygen tanks, even if they are turned off
  • Replace wires and cords that are frayed
  • Don’t overuse electrical outlets
  • Avoid candles (use battery-powered alternatives)

Visiting Angels East Central Indiana’s Professional Caregivers Will Ensure Senior Care Includes Fire Safety

Despite all efforts, older adults can reach a point in their lives where they’re unable to ensure their well-being. In such cases, an in-home caregiver may become necessary. Senior care provided by Visiting Angels East Central Indiana offers the security and personal attention seniors need and deserve. Our compassionate and dedicated caregivers provide assistance and awareness to your senior’s physical and emotional safety. They’ll also ensure you have peace of mind knowing your loved one is in good hands and is safe.

 

If you're interested in more information about how senior care can protect your loved ones and work to prevent fires and other emergencies, contact Visiting Angels East Central Indiana at 765-703-4194.

Serving Pendleton, Muncie, Anderson, Greenfield, McCordsville, Fortville, IN and Surrounding Communities

Visiting Angels EAST CENTRAL, INDIANA
110 E Hartman Rd
Anderson, IN 46012
Phone: 765-778-3434
Fax: 765-356-4161

Serving Pendleton, Muncie, Anderson, Greenfield, McCordsville, Fortville, IN and Surrounding Communities

Visiting Angels EAST CENTRAL, INDIANA
110 E Hartman Rd
Anderson, IN 46012
Phone: 765-778-3434
Fax: 765-356-4161