Fire and Burn Prevention

Burns are a leading cause of unintentional injury and death in older persons. Americans over age 85 are at 3 times greater risk of death from fire than those under 65. Thinner skin, decreased sensitivity to heat, slower reaction time, and certain medical conditions – especially neuromuscular, neurological, and cardiovascular disorders – put older adults at a high risk for burns.

Injuries that are not serious for young adults can be life- threatening or fatal for older persons. Compared with younger hospitalized burn victims, older burn victims need longer stays – hospital stays of over 40 days are common for older burn victims – have more serious complications, and need more assistance after discharge.

Most sustained injuries are preventable.