Safety tips

Look at removing trip hazards and improving strength and balance to reduce the risk of falls. As we age, injuries from falling can have serious consequences.

It is also a good idea to be aware of scams and cons that target the elderly. This can help prevent financial fraud, which has an emotional impact as well as being costly.

There are also assistive devices to help monitor health and emergency alarms, that ensure help can quickly be called if needed,

Accidental fires in the home and the dangers from smoke inhalation are risk to everyone but the elderly are more at risk. They may be less mobile and find it difficult to get out of the home in an emergency.

To keep older people safe at home, regularly check smoke alarms work. Consider a monitored smoke alarm that automatically alerts a call centre when smoke is detected. Make sure escape routes are clear with good lighting.

Pensioners or vulnerable individuals may be eligible for free smoke alarms through local fire safety initiatives in some areas.

Several fire services in local areas offer free home fire safety checks. These checks include installing and testing smoke alarms, creating escape routes, and identifying potential fire hazards. If you have hearing or vision impairments, the fire service may provide specialised smoke alarms at no cost.