According to national statistics, people over the age of 65 have a home fire death rate nearly twice the national average. For those over 75, that risk nearly triples and after age 85 that risk increases to four times the national average.
These statistics are especially alraming when researchers estimate that by 2030, the 65 and older population will eceed 70 million people.
Senior citizens are at a higher risk for fire and burn injuries for several reasons:
For most, your home is your castle – but it can be dangerous if you don’t take precautions. In the United States, fire strikes a home about once every minute, and more than 75-percent of all fire deaths occur in home fires. However, more than half of all fires can be prevented through a combination of fire prevention education and appropriate corrective action.
Links to Fact Sheet Section:
Kitchen Safety Plan Your Escape Smoking Safety Tips Heating Safety TipsTo be safe from fire in your home, everyone, and especially seniors, should have a smoke alarm on every level of the house. The Burn Institute has teamed up with volunteers, fire departments and other community organizations to install a FREE smoke alarm in the home of any senior who does not have a working smoke alarm in their home. To qualify for a free smoke alarm you must: be 55 years or older, reside within the Burn Institute’s service area, own your own home and not currently have a working smoke alarm.
To sign up for a FREE smoke alarm installation, call the Burn Institute at (858) 541-2277.
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