Cork's Over-50s Connect with Emergency Services at Mallow Safety Event

Over 50 older people gathered at Mallow's Hibernian Hotel last week to meet their local emergency services in a relaxed, non-emergency setting, learning vital safety tips about everything from fire prevention to financial scams.

The "Safe and Connected" event, hosted by Cork County Council's Age Friendly programme on 17 July, brought together An Garda Síochána, Cork County Fire Service, ambulance personnel, and Allied Irish Bank representatives to share practical advice with older residents and their carers.

The initiative emerged from discussions with the Cork County Older People's Council, who identified that many older residents wanted closer engagement with their local emergency services, particularly the Gardaí.

Gardaí offered wide-ranging safety advice, including information about the Herbert Protocol, a valuable tool that helps locate people with dementia who may have gone missing. Officers also covered road safety for both drivers and pedestrians, and explained how to protect against modern scams including phishing, smishing, quishing, and vishing attacks.

Cork County Fire Service focused on home fire safety, providing crucial information about smoke alarm grants and the importance of proper installation. Meanwhile, ambulance personnel explained their work beyond emergency response, detailing alternative pathways of care available to older people.

All three emergency services emphasised a key message: older people should never hesitate to call 999 or 112 when they need help.

The Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme representatives outlined resources available to help people remain living independently in their own homes for longer, while AIB staff provided guidance on financial safety and protecting vulnerable customers.

Deputy Mayor of the County of Cork, Cllr Ian Doyle:

"Safe and Connected is an example of what can be done when Cork County Council works collaboratively with our partners on the Age Friendly Alliance and wider emergency services. Events such as these foster engagement with older people and gives the opportunity to strengthen community connections. Also, the Healthy Age Friendly Homes Programme is available to older people in our community to keep them safe, well and living in their homes for longer."

Beyond the practical advice, the event served as a valuable social opportunity. Cork County Older People's Council representatives stressed the importance of older people getting out to meet others rather than remaining isolated at home.

The collaborative project, supported by Cork County Council's Age Friendly Programme, demonstrates how partnerships between local authorities and emergency services can address the specific needs of older residents in a proactive, community-focused way.