You could help save a life?
The oldest members of our community are most
at risk of dying in a house fire and worst of all, it's nearly
always preventable.
This is the stark message from Kent Fire and Rescue Service who
is appealing to local residents to look out for elderly friends,
neighbours and family and to look out for danger signs that can
lead to a fire in their homes.
A combination of factors can significantly increase the risk of
an older person suffering a house fire and often decreases their
chances of survival.
If an elderly or vulnerable friend or neighbour has any of the
issues below, they are at extra risk from fire:
- Lives alone
- Elderly with health or mobility problems
- Uses an old or unstable heater
- Smoker
- Likes a drink
- On medication that makes them sleepy:
A fire in the home is extremely distressing. Not only do people
loose their treasured possessions, they can even loose their life.
Sadly it could so often be avoided. If you know someone you feel
may be vulnerable to these risks, talk to them about having a free
home safety visit from Kent Fire and Rescue Service.
Kent Fire and Rescue Service gives free home safety advice and
can visit an elderly or vulnerable person in their homes. Their
visits take about 30 minutes and they can offer safety advice and
will fit, where needed, free smoke alarms. They even have a range
of fire safety devices for the visually and hearing impaired
people.
By encouraging those you care about to get in touch with Kent
Fire and Rescue Service, you will be playing a huge part in helping
someone you know stay independent and safe in their own home.
Contact Kent Fire and Rescue Service on 0800 923
7000 or email hsv@kent.fire-uk.org or look on
their website www.kent.fire-uk.org for more
information.
Statistics
National statistics show more than half of the people who die in
accidental dwelling fires are over 65 years old - 151 out of
295 fatal casualties.
Quote from Geof Cooper, a firefighter for 33 years, now
retired:
"We all take fire safety for granted, but as we get older -
or our health fails - we are at more risk from fire. I was a
firefighter for 33 years, and have seen the devastating effect fire
can have. It can destroy your most cherished possessions, it can
wreck your home, and your neighbours' - it can even take your
life. But the saddest fact is it's nearly always preventable. A
home safety visit can help you remain
safe and independent. The entire service is free, and a smoke alarm
with a ten-year battery can be installed (also free of charge).
Special alarms are available in case you have sight or hearing
problems."