Senior Citizen Safety
Help Keep Our Seniors Safe
Seniors represent a vulnerable and at-risk population—in many ways. When compared to the population at large, older American adults are twice as likely to be killed or injured by fires. Of course, fires and burns are far from the only hazards and risks our seniors face. Data shows that falls are the leading cause of unintentional injury in the home. Below are some helpful tips to help prevent injuries among older adults—and help them stay safe, sound, and healthy in their homes.Â
Take your time getting out of chairs and bed—and find your balance before walking- Space heaters should have a minimum of a three-foot clearance from combustible material
- Wear tight-fitting or rolled-up sleeves whenever cooking over a stove—and never leave cooking unattended or cook when drowsyÂ
- Cool off burns with cold water for 10-15 minutesÂ
- If your clothes catch fire, remember to stop, drop, and roll
- Test your smoke detector once a month—and change its batteries twice a year
- Use non-slip mats and install grab bars in your bathtub or shower
- Never smoke while you are laying down, drowsy, in bed, or on medicationÂ
For additional senior safety resources, visit the National Fire Prevention Association site. You can also download our helpful Senior Safety Tips Flyer in English or Spanish.
