A Comparative Study of Fire Safety Measures in Hospitals and Care Homes for Aged Adults

Abstract

Fire safety is a critical concern in healthcare settings, particularly in hospitals and care homes housing aged adults, who may have mobility, cognitive, or sensory impairments that complicate evacuation during a fire emergency. This study provides a comparative analysis of fire safety measures in hospitals and care homes for aged adults, assessing the adequacy of existing fire prevention, detection, and evacuation protocols. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research includes surveys of fire safety officers, interviews with care staff, and an evaluation of fire safety audits and incident reports across multiple facilities. The findings highlight significant differences in fire safety preparedness between hospitals and care homes, with hospitals generally having more advanced fire detection systems and specialized evacuation protocols due to their higher occupancy and complex medical environments. However, care homes often face challenges related to staff training, individualized evacuation plans, and the adequacy of fire safety equipment for residents with mobility or cognitive impairments. The study also identifies gaps in regular fire drills, the integration of personal emergency evacuation plans (PEEPs), and communication strategies for residents with dementia or other impairments. The research concludes by recommending improvements in both settings, such as the integration of personalized fire safety plans for residents, regular fire drills tailored to the needs of aged adults, and the use of assistive evacuation devices. By enhancing fire safety measures and addressing the unique needs of aged residents, this study emphasizes the importance of a proactive approach to ensuring the safety and wellbeing of vulnerable populations in emergency situations