Educating Kids About Fire

The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) reports the children of all ages set more than 35,000 fires annually, including an estimated 14,5000 structure fires. Figures show that each year about 150 people are killed with more than $200 million worth of property is destroyed in fires started by children.

You can educate your children about fire to prevent tragedy:

·   Keep matches and lighters in a secured drawer or cabinet

·   Have your children tell you when they find matches and lighters

·   Develop a home fire escape plan, practice it with your children and designate a meeting place outside.

·   Supervise young children closely. Do not leave them alone even if for short periods of time.

·  Take the mystery out of fire by teaching children that fire is a tool, not a toy.

·   Teach children the nature of fire. It is FAST, HOT, DARK, and DEADLY.

· Demonstrate how to stop, drop, and roll if their clothes catch on fire.

· Show children how to crawl to on the floor, below the smoke, to get of the house and stay out in case of fire.

·   Do not use lighters, candles and matches as a source of amusement. Children often imitate the actions of their parents.

·  Remember, no lighter is child-proof. Some are merely child-resistant.

·  Teach your children what your smoke alarm sounds like and walk them through the escape plan several times a year.