Three fire deaths involving over 60s prompt SYFR to launch ‘grandparent check’

South Yorkshire Fire & Rescue has published a “grandparent check” to work out who might need a home visit and advice.

Area manager Steve Helps said: “In the last six weeks we’ve had a number of fire deaths that have involved people over 60.

“As people get older their fire risk increases. This is due to a range of factors, be it living alone, having limited mobility, a hearing impairment or taking medication that causes drowsiness, that can make older people more likely to have a fire and less able to escape.”

Among the tips are ensuring loved ones have functioning smoke alarms, proper ashtrays, working phones and clear exit routes.

Statistics from the service show that more than half the people killed in accidental house fires across the region since 2013 have been 60 or over.

Visit www.syfire.gov.uk/findthetime for more advice and information on arranging a visit.