Q. The recent news about the fire at the Fall River Assisted Living Community has me so upset. I can’t imagine how the families of those who lost their lives must be feeling. I hope there will be changes so nothing like this every happens again. For those of us who may need to choose assisted living in the future, for ourselves or our loved ones, what are the fire safety precautions that we should be looking for?
A. The fire at the Gabriel House Assisted Living Center in Fall River was heartbreaking. Our hearts are with the families who lost loved ones and with the brave first responders who rushed in to save others. You are not alone in wanting to make sure something like this never happens again. In fact, Governor Maura Healey recently announced that the Executive Office of Aging and Independence (AGE) will be taking measures to improve safety for residents living in Assisted Living Residences. These facilities will be required to send a letter to residents and families outlining fire safety protocols, evacuation procedures, and who to contact with questions or concerns.
If you’re considering assisted living, for yourself or someone you care about, don’t be afraid to ask questions about fire safety. Here are a few key things to look for:
Fire safety inspections: Ask to see the most recent fire safety inspection report.
Fire alarms and sprinklers: Are there working smoke alarms and sprinkler systems in both resident rooms and shared spaces?
Evacuation procedures: Are evacuation plans posted in common areas and residents’ rooms? Ask how often drills are held and how residents, especially those with mobility issues, are safely evacuated.
Staff training: All staff, including those working overnight, should receive regular training and know exactly what to do during an emergency.
Backup power: In case of a power outage, is there a backup system to keep alarms, lighting, and medical equipment working?
Taking the time to visit a facility, ask questions, and get a feel for how prepared they are can give you peace of mind.
At AgeSpan, we also have programs that can help. Our Options Counseling service is available to anyone age 60 or older, regardless of income, and can help you understand your choices and plan for the future. If you or a loved one already lives in an assisted living facility, our Long-Term Care Ombudsman Program has trained volunteers who advocate for residents and help address concerns. You can learn more about both programs at www.agespan.org.
Are you caring for an older adult or need help finding healthy aging resources? Our experienced staff is available to help. Visit us online at www.agespan.org. You can also call 800-892-0890 or email info@agespan.org.
Joan Hatem-Roy is the chief executive officer of AgeSpan, which serves the following cities and towns: Amesbury, Andover, Billerica, Boxford, Chelmsford, Danvers, Dracut, Dunstable, Georgetown, Groveland, Haverhill, Lawrence, Lowell, Marblehead, Merrimac, Methuen, Middleton, Newbury, Newburyport, North Andover, Peabody, Rowley, Salisbury, Salem, Tewksbury, Tyngsboro, Westford, and West Newbury.
First published in the Eagle-Tribune.
