Keeping Our Seniors Fire Safe

February 28, 2017

In 2016, the Department recorded the lowest number of fire deaths in New York City history.  Of those 48 deaths, 21 were New Yorkers age 65 or older.
 
This year, six New Yorkers age 65 and older have already lost their lives in fires.  It is a fact that older adults, age 65 and older, are more likely to die in home fires than the rest of the population.  That is why the FDNY is committed to continuing the important work of educating the public, including our senior population.
 
“Fire and life safety education continues to be a top priority.  In 2016, we educated more than 700,000 New Yorkers,” said Fire Commissioner Daniel Nigro.  “It is critical to especially reach out to our most vulnerable populations like senior citizens.  The more seniors we educate through our fire and life safety education programs, the more lives we save. “
 
A top priority is to teach seniors about the importance of working smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.  Smoke alarms should always be placed near where you sleep.  If you have a battery operated smoke alarm, be sure to change them twice a year.  A good indication is to change your batteries when you change your clocks.  If you need to install a new alarm, the 10-Year battery sealed alarms are best.  
 
“A working smoke/CO detector is extremely important for early detection of a fire.  An early warning will give more time to escape safely,” said Lt. Anthony Mancuso, Executive Director of Fire Safety Education.  "We know that a working smoke alarm can cut your risk of dying in a fire in half.  We want to remind all New Yorkers, especially seniors, that this simple step can save your life.”
 
In the event of a fire, it is extremely important to know what to do.  The FDNY encourages seniors to have a plan in mind in the event of a fire, including an escape route with at least two exits per room.  It is important to practice these escape routes.  This includes practicing unlocking and opening windows, security gates and doors as well as making sure stairways and exit are clear of clutter and storage.
 
For more information about how prevent and prepare for a fire, read our Senior Safety Booklet.  
 
Read our top Do’s and Don’ts to keep seniors fire safe.  
 
For more information about our fire and life safety education programs, or to schedule a fire safety education event at your senior center, nursing home, or community center, call FDNY Community Affairs at 718-999-1438 or head to fdnysmart.org.