The U.S. Fire Administration recently focused on older adult fire safety. This is important for all ages, because whether or not you are over 65, you probably know someone who is. People over age 65 are twice as likely to die in a home fire, and the risk of injury in a fire also increases with age. Watch this video and see below for fire safety tips for both older adults and their caregivers:

• Know two ways out of each room. Keep these exits clear.
• Make sure everyone is able to get outside if the smoke alarm sounds.
• If you use a walker or wheelchair, check all exits to be sure that you can go through the doorways.
• If you can’t hear your smoke alarm, consider getting one that has a different sound or one that comes with a bed shaker or strobe light.
• Discuss your fire escape plan with family and neighbors. Contact your building manager or fire department to discuss your plan if you need extra help escaping.
• Keep wheelchairs, eyeglasses hearing aids and a telephone next to your bed.
• Caregivers should check the smoke alarms of those who are unable to do it themselves.
• Never smoke around medical oxygen.
• Use a timer to remind you that you are cooking.

Visit www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention for more information on fire prevention.