Safety Tips for Seniors 
Americans over the age of 65 have a fire death rate nearly twice the national average. For those over 75, this jumps to three times the national average. Whether living independently or in a care facility, there are steps seniors can take to remain safe from a fire.
Be Kitchen Wise
Don't leave the kitchen while you are cooking. If you have to leave the kitchen to answer the door or talk on the telephone, set a timer or take a spoon with you to remind you that you are cooking. NEVER leave grease or oil heating on the stove top unattended for any reason. NEVER use water on a grease fire; use a lid or wet towel to smother the fire. Always keep pot handles turned inward on the stove top so they can't be knocked off or spilled easily. Do not wear loose fitting clothing while cooking. It is never safe to use your stove as a heating device. If you have an oven fire, turn off the oven and leave the door closed.
Give Space Heaters Space
Always keep at least three feet between portable heaters and anything that can burn. This includes drapery, furniture, papers, blankets, pets, and even YOU. Be extremely cautious when using kerosene heaters. Never use any other fuel in them other than kerosene and never refill when hot. Turn them off when you leave the room or go to sleep. These same rules apply to burning candles in your home. Also never run extension cords under furniture or rugs.
Aviod Smoking Indoors
If you must smoke indoors, use large, deep ash trays. Never smoke while drowsy or in bed. It is very dangerous to fall asleep with a lit cigarette in your hand.
PlanYour Escape
It is a good idea to keep a pair of slippers, eyeglasses, and a flashlight by your bed at night. This way, if your smoke alarm goes off at night, you will be prepared to get out of your home quickly. When you first hear your smoke alarm, every second counts for your escape; and you don't want to waste time looking for these items. Make a plan that includes two ways out of every room in your home to get away from the fire. Remember that fire grows very quickly!
Smoke Alarms
Nearly 75 percent of the 1,300 senior citizens who die nationwide in fires each year do not have working smoke alarms in their homes. Smoke alarms are designed to wake you up if a fire starts in your home at night. The smell of smoke or the heat of the fire will not wake you up! In fact, smoke will actually make you drowsy and you will eventually lose conciousness. Only a few breaths of the toxic smoke are life threatening and by the time heat from the fire would wake you, your only way of escape is probably already gone! Install smoke alarms near every bedroom and on every floor. Be sure to change the batteries twice a year.
