Ways you can help prevent children from setting fires.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA), fires set by
children are responsible for more than 100 fire-related deaths, nearly 1,000
burn injuries, and hundreds of millions of dollars in property losses each
year. Children are often the victims in these fires. It’s scary because
curiosity about fire is natural for children, but the fires they set are
usually the most dangerous!
The USFA states that juveniles accounted for roughly 46% of arson arrests between 2005-2010. Also, a child’s bedroom accounts for 40% of child-playing home fires. If you are worried that your child may be experimenting with fire, here are ninee important tips from the USFA:
- Explain that matches and lighters are tools,
not toys! - Never use lighters, matches or fire for fun.
Children will mimic you. - Praise your child for practicing responsible
behaviors and showing respect for fire. - Always supervise young children when they are
around fire. - Never leave matches or lighters within reach
of children. Keep them out of reach in high, locked cabinets. - Use child-resistant lighters, but remember
that they are not child-proof. - Regularly inspect your home for fire hazards
and make sure your smoke alarms are working. - Plan and practice home fire-escape drills that include two ways out
from every room. - Install residential fire sprinklers in your home.
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