02/05/2010: "Older Adults & Preparedness for Fire"

"Adults age 65 and older are at a higher risk of death from fire than other age groups." - U.S. Fire Administration’s (USFA) report, Fire in the United States.

Fire prevention and planning are key elements that aid in reducing the risk of deaths and injuries from fire.

Older adults accounted for approximately 32 percent of all fire deaths. In the event of a fire, remember that every second counts, so you and your family must always be prepared. Escape plans help you get out of your home quickly.
In less than 30 seconds, a small flame can get completely out of control and turn into a major fire.

It only takes minutes for a house to fill with thick black smoke and become engulfed in flames. Developing and practicing a fire escape plan and installing and maintaining smoke alarms are ways in which you can prepare for the possibility of a fire occurring in your home. Being prepared in the event a fire occurs may increase your chances of survival.

For information and resources on this subject visit www.usfa.dhs.gov/citizens/focus