REMEMBERING WHEN®
FIRE AND FALL PREVENTION PROGRAM FOR OLDER ADULTS

Last year, Marion County Fire Rescue firefighters responded to 8,497 traumatic injuries, 4,679 (55 percent of which) were traumatic falls. Whether it was a trip, slip or fall, those everyday accidents caused more traumatic injuries than motor vehicle accidents and structure fires combined.  Partnering with Marion Senior Services, MCFR will visit various senior citizen communities throughout Marion County, focusing on key messages that help residents minimize hazards and live safely at home for as long as possible. Please follow these points to avoid fire and fall hazards.

FALL PREVENTION - Exercise regularly to improve balance and coordination. - Take your time when getting out of chairs slowly. Stand and get your balance before you walk. - Clear stairs and walkways, indoors and out, free of clutter and other obstacles. - Visit eye specialist once per year and use night lights to light dark paths in your home. - Prevent slipping by using non-slip mats in the bathtub and the shower and install grab bars. - Safeguard uneven surfaces by using non-skid backings on rugs. - Tread carefully. Take your time. - Wear sturdy, well-fitted, low-heeled shoes with non-slip soles. Fall and Fire Prevention Reminder Sheets (PDF) Fall Prevention Checklist (PDF) FIRE PREVENTION - If you smoke, use large deep ashtrays and only smoke outside the home. - Keep all space heaters and portable heaters at least three feet from anything that can burn, including you. - Unplug electrical cords that run across doorways and rugs and repair any cracked or damaged cords in your home. - Wear fitted clothing when cooking. Never leave cooking unattended. - Have at least one working smoke alarm on every level of your home and test it once a month. If you don't have a smoke alarm, MCFR's Get Alarmed! Smoke alarm program may be able to provide you with one. Please call MCFR Headquarters at 352-291-8000 for more information. - Plan and practice your escape from fire and smoke. - Know your local emergency number to call in case there is a fire. - Consider your physical ability when preparing your fire escape plan and make sure you can do it. Fire Prevention Checklist (PDF) Fire Safety Tips for Disabled Citizens (PDF) For more information about MCFR's smoke alarm program click here.

For more information about EMS month events or the NFPA's Remembering When®: Fire and Fall Prevention campaign, please call MCFR headquarters at 352-291-8000.