Older Adult Resources

"Simple Habits. Safer Homes."

Older adults face unique fire and life safety risks, including mobility challenges, medical equipment use, and increased vulnerability to fire-related injuries.

The City of Statesville Fire Department’s older adult fire safety resources focus on practical steps to reduce risk, improve home safety, and support safe, independent living.

These resources are designed to support older adults, caregivers, family members, and senior service organizations by promoting awareness, preparedness, and prevention in everyday environments. The Statesville Fire Department also delivers fire and life safety programs for community groups, organizations, and businesses of all types.

Training topics may include CPR and First Aid, fire extinguisher education, and general safety preparedness. Sessions are designed for small to mid-sized groups to provide meaningful interaction and individualized guidance.

Did You Know?

  • At age 65, older adults are twice as likely as the population at large to be killed or injured by fires. By age 75, that risk increases to three times that of the general population—and to four times by age 85.
  • One in three older adults will experience a fall, sending an average of 1 in 17 to the emergency department each year in the US

Watch this video from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) to learn how seconds count during a home fire and why having an escape plan that works for your home and personal needs is so important.

Fire Safety Tips

                  • If you smoke, smoke outside.
                  • Give space heaters space.
                  • Stay in the kitchen when frying food and cooking on the stove top.
                  • If your clothes catch fire: stop, drop, cover, and roll.
                  • Smoke and carbon monoxide alarms save lives.
                  • Plan and practice your escape from fire and smoke.
                  • Know your local emergency number.
                  • Plan your escape based on your abilities.

                  Watch this video from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) to learn how fire risks can increase with age and what steps you can take to stay safe at home.

                  Fall Prevention

                  • Let your doctor know if you have any issues with falling so they can assist you with a plan of action.
                  • Remove tripping hazards and keep exits clear from any clutter.
                  • Keep moving and look into exercises that promote good balance.
                  • Use assistive devices if necessary and install grab bars and nonslip aids in the bathroom.
                  • Make sure you keep living areas well-lit.

                  Watch this video from Strategicfire to learn how preventing falls can play an important role in overall safety for older adults.

                  To learn more, view the NFPA Fall Prevention Safety Cards or assess your fall risk by taking the NCOA fall prevention quiz.

                  More Resources for Older Adults

                  Learn more about ways to improve home safety and reduce fire and fall risks by exploring these trusted resources from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA). These tools provide practical guidance to help older adults and caregivers create safer living environments.

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