Helpful Information for Hull Seniors
Seniors & Fire Life-Saving Tips
More than 4,000 Americans die each year in fires and approximately 20,000 are injured. Many of them might be alive today if only they had the information they need to avoid a disaster. The U.S. Fire Administration offers the following life-saving tips that could make a big difference for you and your community.
Following these simple fire safety tips can increase your survival rate dramatically:
- Install a smoke alarm on every level of your home, Test smoke alarm batteries every month and change them at least once a year. Consider installing a 10 year lithium battery-powered smoke alarm, which is sealed so it cannot be tampered with or opened.
- The kitchen is a high danger zone for fire, so be extra cautious when cooking. Remember not to leave cooking food unattended and don't wear loose clothing when cooking.
- Never use the range or oven to heat your home.
- Double-check the kitchen to be sure the oven and all small appliances are turned off before going to bed or leaving the house.
- Never smoke in bed. Replace mattresses made prior to the 1973 Federal Mattress Flammability Standard.
- Keep flammable materials, such as drapes and clothing at least 3 feet away from your heater.
- Don't overload electrical outlets.
- Develop and practice a home fire escape plan.
- In case of a fire, crawl or stay low to the ground, beneath the smoke. Get out. Stay out.
Did You Know?
- Eighty two percent of all fire deaths occur in the home.
- Americans over the age of 65 are one of the groups at highest risk of dying in a home fire.
- People age 65 to 75 are twice as likely as the general population; 75 to 85 are three times as likely; and 85 and older are four and one-half times as likely to be killed in a house fire.
- Having a working smoke alarm reduces one's chances of dying in a fire by nearly half.
The above information was obtained from The U.S. Fire Administration.