State Fire Marshal’s Office: Fire safety for older adults

The U.S. Fire Administration reports that adults over the age of 65 are 2.6 times more likely to perish in a fire than the general population. Last year in Washington state, people over age 60 accounted for 44.5% of the reported fire fatalities.

The State Fire Marshal’s Office suggests the following fire safety tips for older adults:

Install smoke alarms on every level of your home, inside bedrooms and outside each sleeping area.

Place carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas.

Use specialized alarms if needed. If you are visually or hearing impaired, install smoke alarms with features such as bed shakers or strobe lights.

Test alarms monthly to ensure both smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.

Create a fire escape plan with at least two exits. Practice the pl