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Barakaldo launches project to prevent fires and help elderly living alone
Barakaldo has launched a free service aimed at preventing fires and detecting social needs in the homes of people aged over 80 who live alone. The service includes the supply and installation of fire detectors and an assessment of the social needs of the beneficiaries.
The causes of fires are multiple, and the living situation and human factors are often decisive. The service, introduced under the Mayoress of Barakaldo Amaia del Campo, aims to minimise fire risks among the elderly, who are at a higher risk of accidents, through various interventions. These include analysing the physical environment of the homes, identifying potential fire hazards, and installing smoke detectors.
According to SOS Deiak, the Basque Emergency Service, 8 out of 10 domestic accidents are fires. The elderly, particularly those with reduced mobility, are the most vulnerable in such situations and more likely to suffer accidents. Due to sensory impairment, they may be slower to react or have cognitive problems such as memory loss, which makes them a risk not only to themselves but also to others. Smoke detectors are thus vital as they provide an audible warning that can be heard by the user and neighbours, allowing for early intervention to save lives and minimise damage.
The social needs of the elderly who live alone are also assessed through a structured interview by a social worker who identifies special needs and any related social services that may be required. The service thus provides a way to prevent and address potential problems and enhance the physical and social environment of the elderly.
The project has a budget of €252,517.32 and aims to reach the 2,581 elderly people living alone in Barakaldo who are over 80 years of age. The installation of detectors is straightforward and does not require any major renovations, making it an effective solution for fire prevention. Moreover, the project provides valuable data that can be used to plan social interventions for the elderly.
The project is part of a wider initiative to support the elderly in the city. Other projects such as the Home Help Service, Begirada Adia, Zapatillak, and Social Centers for the Elderly provide additional support to help prevent social isolation among the elderly.
Overall, the service is an innovative way to prevent fires and address the social needs of the elderly in Barakaldo, with the potential to expand to other communities in the future. It also highlights the importance of taking a comprehensive approach to the well-being of elderly people, which involves not only addressing physical needs but also social needs.
(Photo credit: Barakaldo)
