General Fire & Burn Safety Measures

Most fires and burn injuries can be prevented.  The older adult, however, must first see himself or herself as being vulnerable to such an injury.

• Install smoke alarms on each level of your home and outside each sleeping area.
• Test smoke alarms monthly by pushing the "test button" (use a broom handle or a stick to test alarms that are too high to reach or have someone assist you in doing this test).
• If the alarm has batteries, replace the batteries at least twice a year. 
• If the alarm is "chirping", this is an indication that the battery is low and needs to be replaced.

• Clean alarms with a vacuum cleaner, without removing the cover from the alarm.
• Never remove the alarm battery because it will sound off while you are cooking.
• If a battery-operated smoke alarm is more than ten years old, replace the unit with a new one.

• Develop a realistic Escape plan with two ways out of every room.
• Practice the plan, keeping in mind your physical abilities.
• Keep glasses, medicines, telephone, flashlight and walking aids close to your bed,
• Have a visible address on your residence.
• Know your emergency contact phone number (911 or other).

• STAY CALM and use your escape plan.
• If the door is HOT to the touch, do not open it. Fire and deadly smoke are on the other side of the door.  Instead, use your alternative exit.
• When escaping through smoke, crawl low to the ground, if possible, where it is easier to breathe.  Smoke rises in a fire and contains deadly gases. Even one breath can render you unconscious.

• If in a multi-story building when fire occurs, use the stairs. Do not use the elevator!
• Once outside the building, call or be sure that someone has called your emergency number (911 or another) from a neighbor’s house, a cell phone, or a cordless phone.  Listen and give the information needed (name, address, location of fire, etc.) as calmly as possible.
• If in a group residence setting, once outside, “count noses”.  If someone is missing, tell firefighters the last location of the person, if known.
• If your window is your second way out and you cannot get through it, signal by waving a cloth or light to attract attention, especially if you are not on the ground floor.  Keep calm and wait for firefighters. DO NOT JUMP or SMASH window panes.  That could be more dangerous than the fire!

• STOP (do not run), DROP (to the ground) and ROLL (around to smother the flames)
• If you cannot Stop, Drop, and Roll, then SMOTHER the flames with a towel or blanket.
• Remove clothing over burns, if possible and call for medical help immediately