(P-C12) Addressing Fire Safety as Part of a Home Preparedness Intervention for Families with Children and Youth with Special Health Care Needs

Families with children/youth with special health care needs (CYSHCN) are at increased risk of harm in house fires. Caregivers of CYSHCN with technology reliance, mobility needs, intellectual challenges, and/or vision/hearing loss were recruited from medical homes in PA. We conducted a virtual home preparedness intervention (VHPI), developed with caregiver input, that included pre/post interviews, emergency planning resources, and individualized referrals. Pre-VHPI, 98% had smoke alarms, 73% had fire extinguishers, 91% kept walking paths clear, and 48% tested alarms monthly. Post-VHPI, nearly 60% tested alarms monthly (p = 0.08), with significant improvements in fire extinguishers and clear paths (p < 0.05). Referrals to partners led to 84% having light-up alarms and 86% having bed shaker alarms for children with hearing loss. Integrating the VHPI into care visits may help providers meet the fire safety needs of CYSHCN.