- Prevention and safety information to help Americans stay safe from fire.
- Fire prevention resources for America’s career and volunteer Fire Service.
- Coloring pages, puzzles and games that teach kids how to stay safe from fire.
Older Adults
Media stories can save lives! A news story about a residential fire provides a valuable opportunity to give your community a safety message during a teachable moment. Drop in these prevention tips and facts, and you just might save a life.
All U.S. homes should have working smoke alarms.
Fires can be prevented. A few easy steps can save your life!
- If you're hearing-impaired, install smoke alarms with flashing lights or vibrating signals.
- Make an escape plan. Ask your family, building manager, or neighbors to help you practice your plan.
- Consider sleeping on the ground floor to make escape easier.
- Install ramps or widen doorways, if needed, to make escape easier.
- Keep a phone and emergency numbers nearby so you can call for help.
- Never smoke in bed or when you are sleepy, using alcohol, or taking medications.
- Cook safely. Use a timer, and if you must leave the kitchen while cooking, take along a pot holder or dish towel to remind you to go back to the kitchen.
- Keep space heaters at least 3 feet from beds, blankets, furniture, and curtains.
- Have an electrician check your home's wiring every 10 years. Never overload outlets or extension cords.
- If you have a disability, are hard of hearing, or have vision problems, ask emergency providers to keep your special needs information on file.
Older Adults and Home Fires Facts
- Older adults (ages 65 and older) are twice as likely as any other age group to die in a home fire.
- Older adults are also at higher risk of injury from fires.
- The fire death rate for people 85 and older is five times the national average.
- Careless smoking accounts for nearly one third of fire deaths among adults over age 70.
- One third of all adults ages 70 and older have some form of hearing impairment.