In early 2025, Los Angeles, California experienced eight devastating wildfires that consumed more than 16,000 homes. Countless images showed neighbors helping each other, especially older adults, to reach safety. California isn’t alone when it comes to fire risks, although drought and heat are significant drivers for certain areas.

For the senior population, experiencing a fire can be even more challenging because of age and ability. Seniors and older adults are more than two times more likely to die in a fire than the general population. Poor mobility, weak eyesight or hearing, and decreased awareness are just a few reasons for the increased risk. Learning where the risks are at home and creating a proactive plan minimizing fire risk can help keep seniors and their loved ones safe from life-threatening fires and burns. Review these fire safety tips for the elderly to make sure you’re well prepared.

Cooking in the kitchen is the number one cause of house fires. Follow safe practices like staying in the kitchen when cooking. Use caution when handling boiling pots on the stove top and watch any dishes in the oven. Keep handles turned toward the back of the stove and use potholders, not towels or large rags, when grabbing hot handles. Be sure to have a fire extinguisher ready and near the stove in case of fire. 

Long before a full fire breaks out, smoke and particles fill the house, placing seniors at risk for smoke inhalation, particularly if a fire breaks out during the night. Nothing can help protect a home against fires better than installing fire alarms. Unless hearing is an issue, the piercing sound of an alarm will wake you. Be sure to install alarms in several places in the home, especially around sleeping areas and the kitchen. Test regularly to make sure they’re in good working order. For seniors who have hearing loss, explore other options like alarms that vibrate under a pillow or set off strong lights.

Knowing exactly how to get out of your home during a real emergency is essential. While you may think it’s not necessary because you know your house well, the interior may be indistinguishable when dark and smokey. Plan for two routes from every room, making sure windows and doors can open. Always use stairs rather than elevators if living in a high-rise building. Practice your escape route and choose an outdoor rendezvous point to find loved ones or neighbors.

When cold weather hits, seniors and the elderly may feel the effects even more due to loss of muscle or fat. A natural reaction is to use extra space heaters or even unconventional heating methods, like opening the oven while turned on. Use only approved heaters and, ideally, those with an automatic shutoff in case it gets knocked over. Keep children, pets, and any objects at least several feet from a heater. Avoid keeping flammable tanks, gasoline, or other containers inside the house. Caregivers or seniors should hire a professional each year to inspect the heating system for safety and efficiency.

Houses age just like people, needing more care over time. And there’s always a to-do list. Be sure to take note of any suspicious electrical issues like cords that are worn or cracked, outlets that aren’t working properly, or fireplaces that may be smoking or not drafting properly. Be sure to not overload extension cords or outlets.

Nothing creates a warm atmosphere like a candle or oil lamp. When burning candles, be sure to always be present and never leave candles or oil lamps burning when gone from the house. If you have pets, especially cats, be aware of added risk with animals who may knock over items. A safe alternative for the home is to use battery-operated candles which can be safely turned on and off.

Smoking is the number one cause of fire-related deaths. Be sure to use ashtrays, avoid smoking in bed, and properly extinguish cigarette butts. Never leave lit cigarettes or drop butts on the carpet or floors. 

Be sure to keep a fire extinguisher handy in the kitchen and in the bedroom area. Check them annually to make sure they are still in working order. Review the pressure gauge, the date on the fire extinguisher, and the tamper seal, and inspect for any physical damage to the tank. If you’re unsure about the state of the extinguisher, contact a local fire department to learn about recycling or inspections.

If you suspect fire is present, think about your escape route. Even if it’s a small fire, get out of the house and call 911. If you’re trapped and unsure of the fire’s location, make sure doors to your room are closed. If closed, feel the door for heat. If hot, don’t open the door and try to leave the area. Use blankets, clothes, or towels around the door to block any smoke. Remain calm and open any windows to the outside. Stay in touch with emergency responders until they can reach you.

Seniors and older adults may need to modify their home to add grab bars to showers or access ramps at the entrance. When making these modifications, consider the general accessibility of the home. Are there items, furniture, or clutter near entrances or in hallways that could become potential obstacles during an emergency or cause a senior to trip and fall at any time? Are any doors hard to open or permanently shut? Have loved ones or caregivers help evaluate the home for these potential hazards.

If you suspect a fire hazard at home, feel uncertain about your own safety, or just need more information, reach out to local resources like fire stations, city halls, libraries, community centers, or your healthcare providers for guidance. The best defense against home fires is being prepared and feeling confident that you’re as safe as possible aging in your own home.

Disclaimer

Content contained on this page is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your health care provider before beginning any new fitness or dietary plan. References provided are for informational purposes only and do not constitute endorsement of any websites or other sources. Should you have any health-related questions, you should contact your health care provider.

Sources:

1. Fire Safety for Older Adults." U.S. Fire Administration, https://www.usfa.fema.gov/prevention/home-fires/at-risk-audiences/older-adults/
2. "Fire Safety for Older Adults." U.S. Fire Administration, October 2018, https://www.usfa.fema.gov/downloads/pdf/publications/fa_221.pdf
3. "Safety Tips for Older Adults." National Fire Protection Association, https://www.nfpa.org/education-and-research/home-fire-safety/older-adults.