Master Plan, CRA/SOC
Town of Southington, CT
Opportunity #5: Prevention Programs Recommendation 5.1: Develop a targeted community risk program for the residents in the high-risk age groups of over 65 years of age and under 5 years of age. Southington’s population over 65 years of age makes up 21.1% of the population. Those reaching senior status in Southington are slightly above the national average of 16.5%. Coupled with the senior population to make up those most at risk are the 5% who are under five years of age. These two age groups (26.1% combined) are statistically more reliant on the emergency services offered by Southington Fire Department. Understanding these types of data assists in developing targeted safety campaigns and hazard reduction efforts. Recommendation 5.2: Create a targeted Community Risk Reduction Program for people with disabilities. Fires in the home can be potentially dangerous and deadly for everyone, but persons with disabilities and impairments face additional challenges. Persons with disabilities often have a difficult time identifying or escaping a fire. In 2018, 6% of citizens under 65 years of age in the Town of Southington were reported to have a disability. Overall, 3,932 households identified as having one member with a disability. These citizens in the community would benefit from programs to assist in their needs during times of emergency and for emergency planning efforts. Recommendation 5.3: Develop a targeted smoke detector program for residential dwellings that are ten or more years old. Reducing fire fatalities and injuries in the home should be the main goal of any fire prevention program. Statistics show that smoke alarms improve human survivability in residential fires by at least 50%. NFPA’s best practice for smoke alarm replacement is 10 years from the date of manufacture. In addition, emphasis should be given to homes that were built when there were fewer life safety code requirements for smoke alarms, electrical receptacles, and electrical panels. Incorporating a smoke alarm installation program with a home fire safety inspection by targeting homes which are 10 years or older can substantially reduce risk from fire and fire-related hazards. Figure 138. Age of Home Distribution in Southington
Housing Age Distribution 11.1%
12.2%
33.2% 43.5%
2000 or Newer
1970 - 1999
1940 - 1969
1939 or Older
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