Many of us worry about our parents, grandparents, and loved ones who continue to live on their own as they age. There are many hazards associated with elderly people living independently. One of the biggest hazards is fire. Older folks are more likely to unintentionally cause fires or create fire hazards in the kitchen and other areas of their home, and they are less likely to be able to put the fire out or get out of the home quickly. It is important that we take the necessary measures to ensure that our loved ones are safe from these fire hazards.
Fire Detection
Smoke detectors and heat detectors that notify the fire department can be installed as a part of the home security system. (Natural gas and carbon monoxide detectors can also be installed.) These devices notify the central monitoring station which will dispatch the fire department and can be a life saver.
Smoke detectors and heat detectors should be properly installed and maintained by a licensed security company. They are there in case of an emergency and, should one occur, they need to function properly. The general recommendation is that they be replaced every 7 to 10 years.
Medical & Panic Button Alerts
Wireless medical and panic buttons can also be installed as a part of the home security system and can be beneficial to someone who is not able to quickly escape in the case of an emergency. They can be worn on the individual (necklace, bracelet, etc), which means the individual should be able to access them quickly with ease. An alert will be sent out and can potentially save the individual from peril.
Intercom Systems
Home intercom systems can also be very useful in an emergency. For instance, if a fire starts in one room, the person in that room can use the intercom to quickly alert the rest of the residents of the situation, allowing them all to escape in plenty of time.
Eliminate Hazards
It is crucial to eliminate potentially hazardous situations in the homes of the elderly. One of these hazards is falling. Removing all obstacles such as area rugs and arranging rooms with clear paths can help individuals avoid tripping and falling in their home. It is also important that home be well light to allow individuals to clearly see and navigate their environment.
We worry about the ones we love, but as you can see there are many ways to help keep them safe and give us some peace of mind.