Older residents are at a disproportionately higher risk of being injured or dying in a fireplace, based on safety experts. The U.S. Fire Department said the chance is greater than twice as high for people ages 65 to 84.
Here are some safety suggestions that officials say may help prepare for an emergency. They will be useful for seniors all over the place, whether or not they live alone in rural areas or in large retirement communities like Rossmoor or The Villages in San Jose.
- Sign as much as receive emergency alerts from local, state and national authorities. Make sure your cellphone's wireless emergency alert system is activated. Third party apps like Nixle or Genasis also send emergency alerts; CalMatters provides a comprehensive list of alarm contacts for the county.
- Pack a bag with several days' price of food and water, in addition to flashlights, batteries, phone chargers, first aid kits, medications, medical equipment, necessary personal documents, and pet supplies. For more information, see www.ready.gov/kit.
- Talk to family and friends about where you’ll stay within the event of an evacuation and whether your pets can be welcome.
- Pay attention to warning signs published by the National Weather Service. Leave your property while you receive an evacuation warning – or sooner. Don't wait for a proper order.
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