The following details are the New Zealand Police recommendations for the safety of people in the community:
Have a phone beside the bed. Have a touch tone phone with pre-programmed numbers or with a security device that rings the next of kin, or neighbours etc. if the hand set is removed from the cradle.
Use a personal or medical alarm, generally worn around the neck that can be pressed in an emergency. There are several different companies operating throughout New Zealand offering excellent services, clients can check with their local branch of Age Concern for contacts. They need not be expensive.
A life tube from Age Concern or from the local Police station is a good idea. Put vital information inside the tube, put the tube inside the refrigerator and the red sticker on the refrigerator door. Then in an emergency the police, ambulance or fire service can find vital information immediately.
Have a torch in easy reach near the bed and a light switch by the bed.
Alarms are only a back-up for locks, labels and lists. An alarm system can detect a burglar in action, but it can't always keep the burglar out.
Smoke alarms are cheap and they save lives. You can contact your local fire service for advice about the best places to put smoke alarms. The fire service will also assist with installation. |
