Fire Safety Tips for the Visually Impaired

Fire safety is the highest priority of any safety program. It is important to remember that any property, no matter its value, can be replaced; lives cannot.

The difference between life and death for an individual lies in the ability of each individual to respond correctly to a fire hazard, smoke or heat situation. The correct response will be the one that makes up for any specific impairment which could be of concern, be it a visual, hearing, mobility, or speech impairment.

The need for information on fire prevention and safety measures combined with preplanning are crucial for everyone; however, a person with a visual impairment must be aware of what special provisions have been made in the home, work place, or other public facility in order to assure safe egress in the event of an emergency.

A person with any type of visual impairment can survive a fire if he/she follows good fire safety and prevention rules and practices methods of escape. Everyone should know that time lost trying to extinguish a fire may be more harmful than beneficial.

We urge you to contact your local fire department for assistance in developing and reviewing your individual fire safety needs and plan.

FIRE SAFETY PROCEDURES FOR THE VISUALLY IMPAIRED

A person who is visually impaired can survive a fire if he/she follows safety rules and practices methods of escape. This pamphlet is intended to familiarize you with these concepts.

1. General Safety Measures
• A UL listed smoke detector should be installed on each level of the home. Special wiring can connect a smoke detector to vibrating and strobe light devices which can alert those who are deaf-blind. NOTE: A UL listed Carbon Monoxide detector should also be installed to warn of any buildup of this toxic gas.
• Never use the elevator during a fire emergency. Use the stairs to exit the building.
• Stop, drop, and roll if your clothes catch fire.
• To escape heavy smoke, drop to the floor and crawl to safety.
• If you live on the second level or above, and are trapped, hang a sheet out the window or use a flashlight signal for rescue by the fire department. NOTE: Be cautious in breaking windows to signal rescuers as smoke from below may enter your room.
• Learn how to activate all emergency systems and know their locations, including all fire alarm systems, fire extinguishers, and 911 systems.
• Complete and return the Response Alert form in your town if you require assistance. Response Alert notifies the police and fire departments through the 911 system that someone with a disability needs help at a particular location.
• Local fire departments can offer in home consultations to help eliminate potential fire hazards.
2. Safety Issues in Daily Living
• Be totally familiar with all features of the stove. If the controls need to be marked, contact Sight Loss Services for a Home Independence Teacher to mark them. Make it a habit to check controls before going to bed.
• Do not store cooking utensils in the oven.
• Extension cords are not intended for permanent use. Install an outlet to replace overused extension cords. Never place cords under rugs.
• Never store or use gasoline or propane gas in an enclosed area.
• Do not wear loose fitting clothing when cooking.
• If you have partial sight, do not use candles during a power failure. Use flashlights for added safety. Always have fresh batteries available.
• Clean the lint trap on a dryer after every use to avoid the possibility of a lint electrical fire.
• Keep pathways to safety clear of obstacles which might impede a quick exit.
• Secure the corners of area rugs so that you don’t trip or slip on them while trying to exit the home quickly.
• If you have a guide dog, alert the fire personnel that your dog is a working dog and not a pet. Your guide dog will want to remain with you and should exit with you, if possible. A plan should be in place for the care of your guide dog should you require medical treatment.
3. Safety Issues Pertaining to Travel
• Learn two escape routes from the home, work, or public facility. Develop an escape plan based on individual ability and health. Practice the plan. If you cannot locate escape routes, contact a Mobility Instructor to assist you. If you need assistance in developing an escape plan, contact the local fire department.
<.li>When considering places of residence, hotels, entertainment facilities, etc., inquire if they have automatic sprinkler systems. <.li>If necessary, ask a neighbor to participate in a buddy system to use in case of an emergency.
• In new environments such as hotels, always locate escape routes as soon as you arrive. If you cannot find them, ask a relative, friend, or hotel staff to point routes out to you. Count the doors from your room to the stairwell or fire escape.
• Keep pathways to safety clear of obstacles which might impede a quick exit.
• Always take your key when you leave the room in case you have to return due to heat or smoke in the corridor.
• Always check doors to be sure they are not hot before opening.
• If the door is hot, do not open. Place wet towels at the base of the door and all open seams.

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