FIRE STOPS WITH YOU
Removing the Barriers: A Fire Safety Factsheet for People with
Disabilities and their Caregivers
More than 4,000 Americans die
each year in fires and more than 25,000 are injured. The risk of
death or injury from fire is even greater for people with
physical, mental or sensory disabilities. The good news is
deaths resulting from failed emergency escapes are preventable
through preparation.
The United States Fire
Administration (USFA) and the Disabled American Veterans (DAV)
want people with disabilities, their caregivers and all
Americans to know that there are special precautions you can
take to protect yourself and your home from fire.
UNDERSTANDING THE RISK
Why are People with
Disabilities at Risk?
People with disabilities
should be more cautious because of physical limitations and
a decreased ability to react in an emergency.
People with disabilities are
typically fiercely independent and do not wish to alter
their lives from those of the general public. However, this
can lead them to ignore their special fire safety needs. In
some cases people with disabilities may need the help of a
caregiver to practice proper fire safety precautions.
INSTALL AND MAINTAIN SMOKE
ALARMS
People with disabilities should
be aware of the special fire warning devices that are available.
Smoke alarms with a
vibrating pad or flashing light are available for the deaf
and hard of hearing. Additionally, smoke alarms with a
strobe light outside the house to catch the attention of
neighbors, and emergency call systems for summoning help are
also available.
Ask the manager of your
building, or a friend or relative to install at least one
smoke alarm on each level of your home.
Make sure your smoke alarms
are tested monthly and change the batteries at least once a
year.
LIVE NEAR AN EXIT
Although you have the legal
right to live where you choose, you’ll be safest on the ground
floor 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.
PLAN YOUR ESCAPE
Plan your escape around your
capabilities.
Know at least two exits from
every room.
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.
DON’T ISOLATE YOURSELF
People with disabilities have
often been excluded from the development and practicing of
escape plans and fire safety drills. As a result, their vital
input is omitted and their fire safety needs remain unfulfilled.
Speak up to ensure that all parties receive the fire safety
information that everyone deserves.
Speak to your family
members, building manager, or neighbors about your fire
safety plan and practice it with them.
Contact your local fire
department’s non-emergency line and explain your special
needs. They will probably suggest escape plan ideas, and may
perform a home fire safety inspection and offer suggestions
about smoke alarm placement and maintenance.
Ask emergency providers to
keep your special needs information on file.
Keep a phone near your bed
and be ready to call 911 or your local emergency number if a
fire occurs.
KNOW YOUR ABILITIES
Remember, fire safety is your
personal responsibility - Fire Stops With You!
For More Information
Contact:
The United States Fire Administration
Office of Fire Management Programs
16825 South Seton Avenue
Emmitsburg, MD 21727
