How Can I help? Once it is determined that it is not an emergency situation (abuse, neglect, infestation, structural dangers), then there are a few things you can do to help. Talk with the person Use a gentle approach and let them share their story Respect the attachment to possessions by the person Remain calm and factual, but caring and supportive Evaluate for safety using the guidelines below Involve the person in seeking solutions, don’t force interventions be critical or judgmental about the environment Don’t Start the discussion with Safety Codes: Help them establish 36 inch paths throughout their homes. This is standard for getting a gurney into the residence. Also meets fire code. These paths mist be from doorways and windows. Use a tape measure and paint tape on the floor. Help them establish 24 inches from all ceilings. Tape measure and paint tape can help with this as well Help them establish a 36 inch barrier around heating elements (water heater, stove, and refrigerator) and electrical lights. Help them establish a 24 inch square around every window. Floor to ceiling. Help them make sure they have working smoke detectors in each bedroom and on each floor of the home. Help them secure a portable fire extinguisher for each floor of the home Help to remove any combustible materials (paper, magazines, and flammables) from boiler rooms, mechanical rooms etc. Help to remove any gas or propane equipment or vehicles from inside the home (mopeds, lawn mowers, etc.) Connect them with resources: See the list of local resources on the next page.
How Can I help? Once it is determined that it is not an emergency situation (abuse, neglect, infestation, structural dangers), then there are a few things you can do to help. Talk with the person Use a gentle approach and let them share their story Respect the attachment to possessions by the person Remain calm and factual, but caring and supportive Evaluate for safety using the guidelines below Involve the person in seeking solutions, don’t force interventions Don’t be critical or judgmental about the environment Start the discussion with Safety Codes: Help them establish 36 inch paths throughout their homes. This is standard for getting a gurney into the residence. Also meets fire code. These paths mist be from doorways and windows. Use a tape measure and paint tape on the floor. Help them establish 24 inches from all ceilings. Tape measure and paint tape can help with this as well Help them establish a 36 inch barrier around heating elements (water heater, stove, and refrigerator) and electrical lights. Help them establish a 24 inch square around every window. Floor to ceiling. Help them make sure they have working smoke detectors in each bedroom and on each floor of the home. Help them secure a portable fire extinguisher for each floor of the home Help to remove any combustible materials (paper, magazines, and flammables) from boiler rooms, mechanical rooms etc. Help to remove any gas or propane equipment or vehicles from inside the home (mopeds, lawn mowers, etc.) Connect them with resources: See the list of local resources on the next page.