With cold weather around the corner, there is usually an increase in fires and fire-related injuries. In particular, fires can be a hazard for the elderly.

Older people are more at risk for fire death and injuries since they may be less able to act and make decisions quickly due to the aging process or medications. Also, many older people live alone and don’t have help to react to fire emergencies.

Some fire accidents that affect older people:

• Cooking – cooking accidents can occur if a senior can’t read the stove markings and turns the heat up too high, or if food is left unattended
• Smoking – unsafe smoking (e.g., smoking in bed) habits can cause death or serious injury from fire
• Heating – heating equipment such as space heaters can be a hazard to seniors. Many seniors live on a limited income and they may attempt to save money on the electric bill by using space heaters or the stove to heat the house. Space heaters can cause fires if they are too close to other objects or loose clothing, or they tip over.
• Faulty wiring – many seniors live in older homes with older wiring that can cause problems.

Fire safety tips for seniors:

• Use alarms – make sure all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are installed and maintained properly
• Plan an escape route – make sure the exits can accommodate walkers or wheelchair safely
• Examine home for safety hazards – check for such things as overloaded electrical outlets, objects too close to, or on top of heaters, blocked escape routes
• Education – remind a senior (especially those who live alone) of such tips as don’t wear loose clothing such as billowy sleeves when cooking, never throw water on a grease fire, never smoke in bed and never leave food unattended when cooking.

Smoke detectors, batteries, and fire extinguishers make good gifts for anyone, especially a older person. However, consider that the recipient may live on their own and have no way to get up high to change the batteries, or, they might not know how to operate a fire extinguisher, so you might want to add maintenance and instruction about how to use these tools to the list.

If you’re starting to become concerned about your loved one living alone, it may be time to consider assisted living, or — as a start — a home care aide. Read more about senior housing and senior care options here.