HOME FIRE SAFETY IS UP TO YOU!

Check out the safety information below from the Oregon Office of State Fire Marshal and Portland Fire & Rescue

What Can You Do To Prevent Falls?

Take Care of Yourself

• Talk to your doctor about your medications and their side effects.
• Poor vision increases your chance of falling.
• See an eye doctor once a year.
• Clean eyeglasses regularly.
• Regular exercise builds strength and improves balance and coordination.
• Ask your doctor about the best exercise for you.

Keep Pathways Clear

• Keep walking areas clear of loose rugs, cords, shoes, clothing, books, magazines, paper, and other clutter.
• Smooth out wrinkles and folds in loose rugs and carpeting.
• Wipe up spilled liquids immediately.
• Watch out for pets and children.

Slow Down

• When standing, get your balance before walking.
• Get out of chairs slowly.
• Sit up a moment before getting out of bed.
• Don’t rush to answer the phone or door bell.

Do You Have the Tools for Fall Prevention?

Lighting

• Use night lights in walkways.
• Stairways should be well lit from top to bottom.

Rugs & Non-Slip Mats

• Use rugs that have rubber, non-skid backing.
• Use non-slip mats in the bathtub and on shower floors.

Handrails & Grab Bars

• Have easy to grip handrails installed along the full length of both sides of the stairs.
• Have grab bars installed on the wall in the tub and shower, and next to the toilet.

Shoes & Mobility Devices

• Wear sturdy, well-fitted, low-heeled shoes with non-slip soles.
• Use correct mobility devices: canes, walkers, or wheelchairs.

What if You Fall?

If You Fall at Home

• Stay quiet for a moment–don’t panic.
• Decide if you want to try to get up.

If You Decide to Try to Get Up

• Use strong, stable furniture for support.
• After you get up, take time to recover.
• Tell someone you had a fall.
• Get medical help, if necessary.

If You Cannot Get Up, or Decide Not to Try

• Slide or crawl to get help if you can.
• Tell someone you need help.
• After calling for help, remain calm until help arrives.
• Keep warm and comfortable.
• Get medical help, if necessary.

Click here to view the above information in a brochure form created by the Oregon State Fire Marshal's Office. If you have further questions, you are encouraged to contact Portland Fire & Rescue's Public Education Office at (503) 823-3700.

May 13, 2010