1. Identify and define hoarding and hoarding behavior.

2. Understand the dangers related to hoarding.

3. Implement behaviors to prevent fire and loss of life.

Hoarding

Definition of hoarding from the Mayo ClinicIs the excessive collection of items, along

with the inability to discard them.This can include items as well as animals

Statistics of hoarding

Those most likely to be hoarders - older people - unmarried females who live alone- symptoms occur in 1/3 of OCD patients- is a common symptom of dementia patients

Estimated 6 million people, 1 in 20 affected

Hazards associated with hoardingHealth hazards

- medications can get lost in the clutter- dust and mold can exacerbate lung problems- insects and rodents- difficulty getting a stretcher into home- trip hazards

Fire hazards- obstructed means of ingress and egress “ If you can’t get out the fire department can’t get in”- unplanned load on structural supports of house- heavy fire load (more fuel for the fire)- piles could fall over due to the fire or hose streams trapping you

Hazards associated with hoarding

Hazards associated with hoarding

No access to maintain smoke alarms

More fuel more smokeLarger fire increases

chance of fire spread to neighbors home

Difficulty categorizing possessions

Difficulty making decisions

Remembering where things are

What causes compulsive hoarding?

Cognitive-behavioral Therapy

What to do when a loved one hoards?

Show empathy.

Don’t argue.

Respect autonomy.

Remind individual of personal goals and values.

Principles to guide conversations

Fire Behavior

F I R E :a rapid oxidation process with evolution of light and heat in

varying intensities.

FLAMES

HEAT

SMOKE

Fire Prevention/Life Safety Behaviors

If you smoke, smoke outside.

• use deep, sturdy ashtrays

• fully extinguish ashes

• never smoke in bed

Give space heaters space.

• keep 3’ away from anything that can burn

• unplug when going to bed or leaving the house

stop drop

Stop, drop, and roll.• stop (do not run)

• drop gently to the floor

• roll over and over or back and forth

Smoke alarms save lives.

• install outside each sleeping area, inside every bedroom, and on each level

• test monthly

• replace batteries

Plan and practice your escape from fire.• know 2 ways out

• ensure windows/doors open easily

• get out, stay out

Keep walking areas clear.

Look out for yourself.• have annual eye exams

• keep your home well lighted

• use nightlights

• turn on lights before using stairs

Beware of uneven surfaces.• use only rugs that have non-skid backing

• stairways should have handrails

• stairwell should be clearly lit from the top and bottom