Tips For Fire-Sate Living (NAPSA)—Deadly home fires claim the lives of a disproportionately high numberof older Americans. Beginning in their mid-60s, Americansrisk of dying in a home fire increases to nearly twice that of younger people. At age 75, the risk rises to nearly four times as likely. By age 85, the risk reaches almost five times that of the rest of the population. To reduce this risk, the U.S. Fire Administration encourages people ages 50-plus who are preparing for the years ahead and may be caring for older loved ones to prevent fire and save lives by practicing these fire-safe behaviors. Careless smokingis the leading cause of fire deaths and the second-leading cause of injuries among people ages 65 andolder. To prevent these injuries: e Never smokein bed. e Put cigarettes or cigars out at the first sign of feeling drowsy. Use deep ashtrays and put cigarettes all the way out. Don't walk awayfromlit ciga- rettes and other smoking materials. Heating is the second-leading cause of fire deaths and the thirdleading cause of injuries to senior citizens. Here are ways for you to reduce yourrisk: Take easy steps to avoid fire in your home. Keep fire in the fireplace by making sure you have a screen large enough to catch flying sparks androllinglogs. e Space heaters need space. Keep flammable materials at least three feet away from heaters. e When buying a space heater, look for a control feature that automatically shuts off the power if the heaterfalls over. Cooking is the third-leading cause of fire deaths among the elderly, and the leading cause of injuries. Never leave cooking food unattended, and never use the range or oven to heat the home. Also, always double-check the kitchen before going to bed or leaving the house. Go to usfa.fema.gov/50Plus for morefire safety tips.
