Helping Older Adults Live Safely at Home

As we grow older, the risk of injury from fires, falls, and other household hazards increases. The National City Fire Department is committed to helping older adults maintain safe, independent living by providing fire and life safety information, educational resources, and community programs.

Whether you are an older adult, a family member, or a caregiver, the information below can help make your home safer and better prepared for emergencies.

Fire Safety Tips

Help reduce the risk of home fires by:

• Installing working smoke alarms inside every bedroom, outside sleeping areas, and on every level of the home.
• Testing smoke alarms monthly.
• Replacing smoke alarms according to the manufacturer's recommendations.
• Keeping cooking areas free of combustible materials.
• Never leaving cooking unattended.
• Practicing a home fire escape plan.

Home Safety Tips

Simple improvements can reduce the risk of injury:

• Keep walkways free of clutter.
• Remove loose rugs or secure them to prevent falls.
• Improve lighting throughout the home.
• Install grab bars in bathrooms and handrails on stairways.
• Keep emergency phone numbers easily accessible.

Emergency Preparedness

Be prepared before an emergency occurs by:

• Maintaining an up-to-date list of medications and emergency contacts.
• Keeping important medical information readily available.
• Making sure your house numbers are visible from the street.
• Developing an emergency evacuation plan with family members or caregivers.

Additional Resources

You may also be interested in:

• Free Smoke Detector Program
• Fire Prevention Classes
• Vial of Life Program

Questions?

If you have questions about home safety or would like additional fire prevention information, please contact the National City Fire Department.

Phone: (619) 336-4550

Email: fire@nationalcityca.gov