Fire and Life Safety Education for Healthcare Facilities

As the age of the person increases so does the risks of death due to fire.

Many factors contribute to these grim statistics. Changes associated with the aging process increase the likelihood of older adults accidentally starting a fire and these changes also reduce their chances of surviving a fire. Some of these characteristics that increase the risk of fire death and injury for older adults are:

  • Decreased mobility and agility
  • Dementia
  • High medication use
  • Sensory Losses
  • Substance abuse problems
  • Weaker respiratory systems

Need for Training

Research has shown that lack of training is one of the leading factors that contribute to the loss of life in healthcare facility fires. Training is critical for owners, operators, management and all staff of healthcare facilities, as they are responsible for all occupants and residents. By educating a nursing facility’s staff about fire prevention, evacuation procedures, and the steps to take in the event of a fire, a facility will be assured of greater fire protection.

Online Education verses Instructor Led Training

Studies conducted in traditional instructor-led workshops verses online computer based education show online education can offer many advantages. Residents needs come before training needs and it is often very difficult for a facility to have multiple staff members attend traditional classroom education even for a few hours. Online education allows staff to participate and complete education at their own pace and convenience even in the comfort of their own homes. Online education is not dependent on time of day, availability of instructors, staff schedules and is much easier to complete for night shift, part time and traveling staff.

With online education the facility does not have to take the time to prepare and teach fire safety and online education is consistent with presentation. Many students report online education to be a more enjoyable and interactive experience which facilitates learning.

Source: The Effects of Computer-based Fire Safety Training on the Knowledge, Attitudes, and Practice of Caregivers: click here.
Accessed 04/23/2013