Whether you’re a family caregiver for an elderly loved one or providing support as a professional in-home caregiver, you’ll benefit from the following essential tips on how to stay safe and avoid fire hazards
While fires are a safety risk to people of all ages, seniors over the age of 65 make up 40 per cent of all fire-related deaths in Canada. Seniors are also far more likely to suffer serious or fatal injuries from a fire in their homes. Many older adults struggle with physical or mental challenges, including mobility issues, loss of sight or hearing, and forms of dementia.
It is crucial for seniors and their families to have a safety plan in case of a fire and how to prevent fires in the first place. The best way to keep your loved one safe is to ensure their home is safe.
At Senior Home Care by Angels, we can provide family caregivers with the information they need to protect their senior loved ones. In addition, our in-home caregivers are proactive and committed to making sure seniors in our care remain safe as they live out their golden years at home.
Fire Safety for Seniors
If you are worried about your loved one’s safety in their own home, you may want to consider hiring an in-home caregiver from Senior Home Care by Angels. Our caregivers can make sure your loved one is secure at all times by providing quality senior home care services.
To keep your loved one safe during a fire, make sure they have the following:
It is very important for seniors who have hearing or vision impairments to have smoke detectors installed. Many different types of smoke detectors are available, and some can create low tones, while others can produce flashing lights or bed vibrations to wake seniors in case of a fire.
Whether your loved one lives in a house or an apartment, it is crucial they know the layout of their home or apartment building. They should know what areas are safe during a fire, and how to reach the nearest exit. For seniors who have special needs, we recommend they have a medical alert system that can be activated at any time to contact emergency services.
- A pathway out of the home
Finding a pathway to an exit may not sound complicated, but if you have a loved one who is wheelchair bound or uses a walker, make sure there are ramps available and that the doors can open wide enough.
Fire extinguishers do eventually expire, so it is important to keep them up to date. Make sure your loved one knows how to use them properly.
Fire Prevention Tips
- Never leave a stove unattended while on
- Avoid using candles
- Do not use the oven for heating the home
- Avoid overusing electrical outlets
- When using the stove, avoid wearing loose clothing
- Replace frayed wires and cords
- Turn all appliances off before bed or leaving the home
- Never smoke near oxygen tanks
- Keep lids around in case of grease fires
- Never smoke inside and use ashtrays filled with sand or water
- Never smoke in bed
How In-Home Caregivers from Senior Home Care by Angels Can Help Seniors Stay Safe
Unfortunately, many seniors often come to a point where they are no longer able to care for themselves. When this happens, it may become necessary to hire a professional senior caregiver. At Senior Home Care by Angels, our in-home caregivers offer the security and assistance that seniors need to continue living in the comfort of their own homes. With our help, you can sleep peacefully knowing your senior loved ones are being well-cared for.
To learn more about how in-home caregivers can help your loved one, contact your local Senior Home Care by Angels office today!