Steps to Safety for Family Caregivers
Caring for loved ones is rewarding but challenging work. These modules will provide family caregivers with the knowledge of how to prevent both fires and falls. Sometimes there are small changes that can be implemented to keep family members safer in their environment.
Tips for Preventing Fires
Fire Tip #1: Smoke Alarms Save Lives
Roughly 3 out of 5 fire deaths happen in homes with no smoke alarms or no ‘working’ smoke alarms.
Fire Tip #2: Plan and Practice Your Escape from Fire and Smoke
In a fire, you are more likely to act calmly and efficiently if you have planned and practiced how to leave your house.
Fire Tip Sheet #2: Plan and Practice Your Escape from Fire and Smoke (Download PDF)
Fire Tip #3: Plan and Practice Your Escape from Fire and Smoke in an Apartment or Condo
If you live in a condo or apartment, it is important to know the difference between the sound of your smoke alarm and the building’s fire alarm.
Fire Tip #4: Smoke Outside
Smoking is the leading cause of fires in Saskatoon.
Fire Tip #5: Cooking Safely
Cooking fires start when the attention stops. If you have to leave the kitchen, even for a short time, turn off the burner and move the pan to a cool burner.
Fire Tip #6: Electrical Safety
Electricity makes our lives much easier but needs to be respected.
Tips for Preventing Falls
Fall Tip #1: Medications
Medications can impact our fall risk – review your medications, both those prescribed and the ones you purchase over the counter, with your doctor/pharmacist annually or when they are changed.
Fall Tip #2: Exercise More
Exercise, especially balance exercises will decrease your fall risk.
Fall Tip Sheet #2: Exercise More (Download PDF)
Modified Exercises (Download PDF)
Fall Tip #3: Take your Time
People are more vulnerable when they are rushing. At those times there is a tendency to cut corners.
Fall Tip #4: Sturdy Well-fitting Shoes
Wearing good shoes that are appropriate for the activity you are engaging in can prevent a fall.
Fall Tip #5: Be Aware of Uneven Surfaces
With age it becomes more difficult to lift your feet making it easy to trip on uneven surfaces like cracks in the sidewalk or throw rugs.
Fire Tip Sheet #5: Be Aware of Uneven Surfaces (Download PDF)
Fall Tip #6: Improve your Lighting
Being able to see well is very important to maintaining your balance. Good lighting throughout your home, even at night, as well as regular eye checkups are critical.
Fall Tip #7: Bathroom Safety
Bathrooms can be a particular hazard because they are often wet and require precise navigation.