UK Fire Services pledge to improve fire safety for people with dementia
Fire and Rescue Services across the UK have pledged to improve the safety of people with dementia.
The scheme is part of the Governments challenge to help build dementia friendly communities across the UK. The scheme is being led by the Alzheimer’s Society and TV presenter, Angela Ripon.
The scheme aims to ensure families and carers are aware of potential fire risks, raising awareness of free home safety visits and advice and encouraging other local organisations to help build dementia friendly communities.
Frank Swann from Nottinghamshire Fire Service said: “We are committed to ensuring that vulnerable people, including those with dementia, can stay safe and independent in their own homes. The effects of fire can be devastating for families but, with advice and support, we can help people make small changes that make a big difference to their safety. Fire and rescue services around the country are already doing excellent work in their local communities, and we are all keen to work closely with colleagues in other sectors to identify those who need our help. This dementia challenge is a great opportunity to work towards creating safer communities for those with dementia.”
September 18th, 2012 at 11:21 am
Hi, we have many buildings which look after elderly people who suffer from dementia. The problem I’m finding is carrying out a fire drill, the sounder sometimes causes confusion and panic and when outside at the assembly point, trying to keep them together is a challenge to say the least. I have mentioned to the managers to try a drill without the alarm, however they are still concerned about doing this. Do you have any suggestions to resolve this problem?
Stephen
September 18th, 2012 at 12:30 pm
The purpose of the fire drill is to ensure that the correct procedures are tested, and being carried out by all trained staff in the event of a fire. You do have a dilemma here however, it is important that you understand that training as close to a real fire experience as possible is imperative “where possible.” Experience like this is absolutely necessary, in my opinion, so that you cover every eventuality should a real fire of incident occur.
There are many cases in history where, for one reason or another, the correct training has not been provided and unfortunately it is usually the people in the establishment that end up suffering.
You could look at the frequency of using the alarm in practice scenario’s but you must first revisit your Fire Risk Assessment and justify why a change is process has been carried out!
I am also wondering whether weekly tests of the fire alarm system are currently being carried out? As this may make a difference to the stress levels of the dementia patients! Hope this is of use!