More than 43 million Americans have a disability. Those numbers are constantly changing; at any point, able-bodied people can become part of this group, for a short time or a long time.
People with disabilities tend to be fiercely independent, but trying too hard to “fit in” can lead them to overlook their fire safety needs. In some cases, they may need help from a caregiver, neighbor or outside source to practice proper fire safety precautions.
Many disabled people are older adults, the fastest-growing segment of our population who face a high risk for fire death and injury. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, by age 65, people are twice as likely to be killed or injured by fires. By age 85, the risk of dying in a fire is increased five times.
Mobility and reaction times may be slowed. Sight, hearing and smell may be diminished. Medications may increase drowsiness, confusion or disorientation.
“The good news is that fire safety precautions can help protect people with disabilities in our community,” said Haddam Volunteer Fire Company Chief Sam Baber.
For the visually impaired, the importance of having working smoke alarms cannot be overstated. Smoke alarms should be tested at least once a month by pushing the test button. If you can’t reach the alarm, consider buying alarms that you can test with a flashlight or television remote. For added safety, interconnect all smoke alarms so that when one sounds, they all sound.
Non-replaceable (long-life) batteries are designed to remain effective for up to 10 years, and can be helpful for people who find it difficult to change batteries.
People who are deaf or hard-of-hearing cannot depend on the sound of a regular smoke alarm to alert them and should consider smoke alarms with a bed-shaker, high-decibel audible warning or flashing light – some do all three.
Additionally, smoke alarms connected to a strobe light outside the house help catch the attention of neighbors and first responders while emergency call systems quickly summon help.
Always keep a phone by your bed for emergency calls (or a TTY/TDD device if you use one). Keep eyeglasses, keys and hearing aids (if necessary) next to your bed and make sure lamp or light switches are within reach.
If you have a service animal, mention that to a dispatcher so that first responders can evacuate the animal with you. Prior to an incident, consider asking emergency providers to keep your needs information on file.
Although you have the legal right to live where you choose, the ground floor is always the safest if you live in an apartment building. If you live in a multi-story home, arrange to sleep on the first floor. Being on the ground floor and near an exit will make your escape easier.
In choosing an apartment or purchasing a home, strongly consider one with fire sprinklers. Residential fire sprinklers can contain and may even extinguish a fire before firefighters even arrive.
Know at least two exits from every room and if you use a walker or wheelchair, check all exits to be sure you get through the doorways. Make any necessary accommodations, such as providing exit ramps and widening doorways, to facilitate an emergency escape. Keep stairways and exits clear of clutter and storage.
People with disabilities are too often excluded from the development and practicing of escape plans and fire safety drills. Speak to your family members, building manager or neighbors about your fire safety plan and practice it with them.
Now you - and your family - can sleep soundly knowing you’ll be sufficiently alerted in case of a fire emergency and have a plan to get out.
Do You Have What It Takes? Find more information on the activities of the Haddam Volunteer Fire Co. and ways you can get involved at our website www.HaddamFire.com, or connect with us on Facebook.
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