Seniors learn about fire safety

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ROBERTSDALE, Alabama — Seniors at the George P. Thames Adult Activity Center in Robertsdale learned about fire safety and other hidden hazards during a Lunch-n-Learn held Thursday, Oct. 17.

“Knowing what to do in the event of a fire is particularly important for older adults,” according to information handed out during the Lunch-n-Learn from the National Fire Protection Association. “At age 65, people are twice as likely to be killed or injured by fires compared to the population at large. And with our numbers growing every year – in the United States and Canada, adults age 65 and older make up about 12 percent of the population – it’s essential to take the necessary steps to stay safe.”

Information was provided on tips to make your home safer in case of a fire, including installing and keeping a check on smoke alarms to make sure they are working.

It is also important to make sure you have a plan and practice the plan for the safest and easiest way out of the home and tips to reduce hazards that would prevent safe and easy exit possible.

A short video was also presented with other tips, like staying in shape so that you are able to escape a fire, and letting firefighters know if oxygen is used in the home or if the person in the home is impaired in any way (including if that person is blind or deaf).

Following the program lunch was served, including sliced turkey breast in gravy, vegetables, drink and dessert.

The George P. Thames Adult Activity Center hosts daily, weekly, monthly and special events for adults over age 50 at the center on East Chicago Street and at the PZK Hall on Alabama 104 in Robertsdale.

Lunch-n-Learn events are hosted on a regular basis at the Center.

For more information you can pick up a monthly calendar at the center, call Center Director Amy Ochello or staff volunteers at 251-947-8973, or email robertsdaleseniorcenter@gmail.org. You can also check out the Robertsdale Senior Center page on Facebook.