by Janice Budzinski These are the top three causes of fire among seniors: smoking, heating sources and cooking. There are simple precautions that can be taken which can mean the difference between life and death.

In order to prevent injury or death, smoke alarms need to be placed in the bedrooms and on each level of the home. Three out of four seniors who die in fires do not have operating smoke alarms, and do not have predetermined fire escape plans. If it is necessary, call your local fire department and have them help you design a fire escape plan for disabled and physically impaired seniors. Hard-of-hearing smoke alarms are also available that use strobe lights to alert the person in case of a fire. 

There are ten-year lithium batteries available for use in new alarm. These are a good idea for seniors, as they cut down on the need to buy batteries. But whether there is a normal or lithium battery in the smoke alarm, the alarm must still be checked about once a month, to ensure that it is working properly. Normal batteries must be changed annually.

Heating Sources-

Have heating sources checked out each year by a qualified professional. 

Wood burning stoves need special attention. 

Keep at least three feet of empty space around portable heaters. 

Do not dry clothing on a heater. 

Watch out for loose fitting clothing around a heater. 

Have fireplaces cleaned regularly, use a fire screen, and never leave the fire unattended.

Cooking Safety-

Keep all towels, curtains, paper, plastics, and loose fitting clothing away from the stove and oven.

Never leave cooking food unattended; use a timer. If a pan ignites, slide a lid on it, and turn off the heat. 

Turn pot handles in, and use lightweight pots and pans.

Store potholders and lids nearby the stove.

Never use the stove to heat the house. 

Do not store needed items above the stove. 

Keep the area free from grease, and wear close-fitting sleeves while cooking. 

Close the oven door and turn off the heat if food ignites within the oven.

Smoking Safety-

Remind seniors not to smoke in bed or when sleepy from medications or alcohol. 
Provide them with large, deep ashtrays, and remind them not to walk away from a lit cigarette or cigar. 

Finally, make sure all smoking materials are completely extinguished before dumping them into a garbage can.

This information provided by the National S.A.F.E. Home Foundation, Inc. The National S.A.F.E. Home Foundation, Inc., is dedicated to fire prevention. They create community partnerships across the United States to establish smoke alarm giveaway programs in local areas. They also provide fire safety guidance to all members of the community. S.A.F.E. Home Foundation works with local fire departments and individuals, organizations, community groups and local businesses to create S.A.F.E. Home Programs.