6 Tips To Practice With Elderly or Disabled In Case of a Fire

4/8/2020 (Permalink)

Most people know what to do should a fire occur, but do you know what to do if someone you know is older or has disabilities and isn’t capable of the same escape plan you are?  Whether it is you, a family member, a friend, a neighbor or even a tenant these 6 tips are good for everyone to know and practice in case of an emergency. 

• If you live in an apartment building, if at all possible, try to live on the ground floor, you will be safest there. If you live in a multi-story home, plan to sleep on the main level close to exits

• If you are in a wheelchair, make sure to check all exits to see if you are able to get through them safely. 

• Make any necessary accommodations, such as providing exit ramps and widening doorways. 

• Practice your escape plan with family, neighbors and even building managers.

• Contact your local fire department's non-emergency line and explain your special needs. Ask emergency providers to keep your special needs information on file.

• Always keep a phone near your bed so you can call 9-1-1 in case a fire occurs.

For more information on fire escape plans visit https://www.ready.gov/home-fires.