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KCCA News

Date: 25/06/2009

Fire Safety Awareness

In Kent, there were 13 fire deaths in the year from April 2008. In five cases there was no smoke alarm fitted, and in two an alarm was present but not working. All 13 tragedies involved people over the age of 40, with the majority 65 or older – all but one of these were men.

The oldest members of our community are most at risk of dying in house fires. It’s a terrible way to lose your life. Worst of all, it’s nearly always preventable. The points below can combine to significantly increase the likelihood of an older person having a house fire – and often decrease their chances of survival.

Lone living: Safely managing a home can become harder as you grow older.

Lifestyle: Alcohol and smoking are often key player’s in house fires – but prescribed drugs can also play a part.

Health / Mobility: Poor health and difficulty with movement can be the catalyst for a fire, and have fatal consequences once a blaze starts.

Heating: Many house fires involving older people begin due to faulty or poorly positioned portable heating.

If you know someone vulnerable to these risk factors, get in touch, using the details below, to arrange a home safety visit. This service is entirely free of charge. As well as conventional smoke alarms, we also have a range of fire safety devices for the visually and hearing impaired. Call Kent Fire and Rescue Service on 0800 923 7000 or email hsv@kent.fire-uk.org.

Kent Fire and Rescue Service also has a range of posters and leaflets which promote the Home Safety Visit service to the vulnerable and elderly. These can be put on notice boards, used in newsletters, and handed out at events. Or, they could be used to prompt a conversation with a friend or neighbour who you think might be at risk. The visits, carried out by trained professionals, help ensure people can remain safe and independent in their homes. Smoke alarms can be supplied and fitted without any charge – the entire service is free. The posters and leaflets can be obtained by contacting Stuart Tickle on 01227 825534, or emailing stuart.tickle@kent.fire-uk.org.