Columbus, OH (December 8, 2024) – An elderly woman sustained critical injuries during a fire at the Worley Terrace senior apartment building on the city’s west side late Friday night. The Columbus Division of Fire responded to the 90 block of South Central Avenue just before 11 p.m., according to Battalion Chief Jeffrey Geitter.
The fire, which was confined to a single unit, was largely extinguished by the building’s sprinkler system before firefighters arrived. Emergency crews transported the woman to The Ohio State University Wexner Medical Center for treatment of severe fire-related injuries. Officials have confirmed that the injuries were caused by smoking while using home oxygen, a hazardous combination that likely ignited the flames.
Investigators have identified smoking materials placed too close to an oxygen source as the cause of the fire. Fortunately, the swift activation of the sprinkler system and the firefighters’ quick response prevented the blaze from spreading to other units.
Fire Safety in Senior Residences
Incidents like the fire at the Worley Terrace apartment building highlight the unique fire risks faced by seniors, particularly those who rely on medical devices like home oxygen. Across Ohio, improper handling of smoking materials remains a leading cause of residential fires, often resulting in severe injuries or fatalities.
Fire safety for seniors includes ensuring that oxygen equipment is used away from open flames or smoking materials and adhering to safety guidelines provided by manufacturers. Caregivers and residents should also ensure that smoke alarms and sprinkler systems are operational and conduct regular fire safety checks.
Community fire departments and organizations often offer fire safety education tailored to seniors, including tips for managing medical equipment safely and emergency planning. By following these guidelines, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of fires in their homes.
For more information on fire safety or to access resources for senior fire prevention, contact your local fire department or senior advocacy organizations.