(NC)—The elderly are more at risk of injury from fire and are less likely to own alarms. The importance of having working smoke alarms has been emphasized over the years through the effort of fire services. Although these campaigns have increased awareness of the smoke alarm message amongst the general population, a key target group – the aged – still lag in their fire preparedness.
"Many do not have adequate protection in terms of smoke alarms on every level of the home. Additionally, there is a great percentage who do not adhere to a regular maintenance schedule," says Raffi Nersesian, spokesperson for Kidde Safety Canada, an industry leader in fire protection equipment. Typical maintenance involves testing the unit, changing batteries or replacing the whole alarm every ten years.
Aggravating the situation, is that some elderly people may be particularly at risk from fire due to health problems or reduced mobility.
Fire safety advice for the elderly
- It is essential to install a smoke alarms on every floor to gain those precious few minutes of warning which could help you escape to safety.
- Install tamperproof smoke alarms with sealed 10 year batteries. This offers the convenience of not having to change the battery, and is more economical in the long term.
- People with some hearing impairment might be better to have an interconnect ed system, with two or more alarms, where smoke detected in one room will set off all the others in the connection. An electrician will be able to advise you about linking the alarms.
For people who are not be able to hear a conventional smoke alarm there are special devices available, which make use of a vibrating pad and/or flashing light instead of the audible signal. Further information on protection and prevention is available by calling toll free 1-800-565-1976, or visiting www.SafeAtHomeTips.com.
- News Canada
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