CPSC Urges Safety Measures for Older Americans During National Safety Month

As June marks National Safety Month, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) is shedding light on the heightened risks that consumer products pose to senior citizens. Each year, over three million older adults sustain injuries from various consumer items, leading to significant hospitalizations and, alarmingly, approximately 41,000 fatalities. The CPSC is committed to rectifying these hazards, enhancing the safety and independence of older Americans.

The CPSC's Commitment to Senior Safety

In a recent report titled "Senior Injuries and Deaths Associated with Consumer Products 2024 Report", the CPSC highlights the dangers that commonplace consumer items can present to older adults. This report is crucial in understanding the perilous nature of everyday products, which have resulted in a staggering average of 41,000 deaths annually among seniors.

Peter Feldman, the Acting Chairman of the CPSC, emphasized the organization's dedication to advancing safety measures and establishing rigorous standards for consumer products. He noted a recent record in recalls for products not meeting the Safety Standard for Adult Portable Bed Rails, underscoring the importance of consumer safety in their enforcement efforts. The CPSC's recent actions involved sweeping recalls affecting over 95,000 units of potentially hazardous products, showcasing their proactive approach.

Commissioner Douglas Dziak shared a personal experience that deeply motivates his commitment to this cause, recounting how his mother-in-law suffered a serious injury from a fall at home. This incident exemplifies the real-life impact of senior injuries and strengthens the argument for prioritizing their safety.

Preventative Measures for Seniors and Caregivers

To combat the alarming statistics, the CPSC recommends several important safety measures that seniors and their caregivers can implement:
1. Check for Recalls: Verify whether any portable bed rails in your home have been part of a recall. If so, refrain from using them and consider purchasing ones that comply with the ASTM voluntary standard.
2. Install Safety Features: Equip stairs with handrails on both sides and grab bars in bathrooms. Ensure that stairways are well-lit and uncluttered to prevent falls.
3. Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Place smoke alarms on every level of your home, especially outside sleeping areas and within bedrooms. Carbon monoxide alarms should also be installed on every floor outside of sleeping areas.
4. Cooking Safety: Avoid loose-fitting clothing when cooking to prevent fire hazards. Remain vigilant while preparing meals, especially when using stovetops and ovens.
5. Swimming Precautions: Always swim with a buddy and consider swim lessons for enhanced safety. If uncertain about swimming capabilities, utilize U.S. Coast Guard-approved flotation devices.
6. Generator Usage: Portable generators should never be operated indoors. Always place them outside, at least 20 feet away from the home, to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
7. Traffic Awareness: Stay alert while navigating traffic environments. This includes wearing appropriate gear and helmets when riding bicycles or scooters, significantly reducing the risk of serious injuries in accidents.

Conclusion

The CPSC’s ongoing commitment to minimizing risks for older Americans is critical as June unfolds. Through a collaborative effort among families, caregivers, and safety organizations, the aim is to create a safer living environment for everyone, particularly those vulnerable populations. By implementing these recommended safety precautions, we can work toward reducing preventable injuries and ensuring a better quality of life for our seniors.

For further safety tips and updates, visit the CPSC’s dedicated page on older adult safety at CPSC.gov.