It is not unusual for older adults to require the services of firefighters, paramedics, or police officers. City residents should remember that in an emergency, seconds count. The faster that emergency personnel can get to the scene, the more likely that a life can be saved or a disaster averted.
Massachusetts law requires that, “Every building in the commonwealth, including, but not limited to, dwellings, apartment buildings, condominiums, and business establishments shall have affixed thereto a number representing the address of such building. Said number shall be of a nature and size and shall be situated on the building so that, to the extent practicable, it is visible from the nearest street or road providing vehicular access to such building.” Addresses are entered into the electronic database for use in enhanced 911 service.
House numbers need to be at least four inches in height and facing the street. The numbers should be put under lighting and contrast with the background of the house so that they are visible at night. If the house numbers are obstructed by trees, bushes, flags, or decorative ornaments, they will not be seen by emergency personnel. In addition, numbers on the mailbox must be visible from both directions.
In a crisis, the injured person, a visitor, or a grandchild may be unable to provide clear directions. Emergency personnel from a neighboring community may be unfamiliar with the targeted destination. Precious time is lost if firefighters, paramedics, or police officers drive right by the house because it is not clearly identified.
Safety for older adults requires attention to some basic details. Working smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors should be installed on every level of the home. The batteries in the detectors should be changed twice a year when the clocks are changed for daylight saving time. The three essential items that should be kept by a senior’s bedside include eyeglasses, a telephone, and a whistle. In case of a fire or other emergency, eyeglasses will help the older adult to see and avoid injury as he or she escapes the fire. A telephone will allow the person to call for help. And finally, a whistle will alert other household members to the fire or emergency, and rescuers to the person’s location.
Informational handouts and brochures on fire prevention and safety for older adults are available at the Westfield Senior Center, 40 Main Street. Written guidelines, courtesy of the Westfield Fire Department, on the types of smoke and carbon monoxide detectors required based on the year that a home was constructed are located in the Senior Center foyer. Discount coupons for the City’s seniors needing to purchase a detector can be obtained at the Senior Center. Seniors should seek the assistance of relatives, friends, or neighbors to change the batteries in their detectors. If such assistance is not available, older adults can call the Senior Center at 562-6435 and a reliable volunteer will be recruited to help.
Tina Gorman
Director
Westfield Council On Aging
