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HomeMy WebLinkAboutChildren Playing with Fire 183037 RR145 (Box 130), Brooks, AB T1R 1B2 Check us out on social media Phone: 403-362-3266 Fax: 866-860-8158 Email: martink@newellmail.ca Web: www.countyofnewell.ab.ca Children Playing with Fire The Facts • It is normal for children, even as young as two years old, to be curious about fire. Guiding children to fire-safe behaviour is the responsibility of parents and caregivers. • Fire play happens when a curious and unsupervised child plays with matches, a lighter, an open flame or a hot stove. This curiosity can lead to a fire that may result in death, injury, or property damage. • Fires started by children in the home usually happen in bedrooms. Other rooms where children play with fire are the living room, the closet and the kitchen. What you can do? Step 1: Prevent children from starting fires • Keep matches and lighters out of sight and reach. Even toddlers are known to have started fires with lighters. • Never leave a hot stove, space heater or lit candles unattended. • Reward a child who finds and reports to any adult of any matches or lighters they find. • Never leave children unsupervised at home—not even to run a quick errand. Step 2: Teach children about fire • Teach children that fire is a tool, not a toy. Talk about the use of fire as a tool we use to cook food, heat our homes, make repairs and light birthday candles. • Educate your children about the dangers of fire and make sure they know that all fires, even small ones, can spread very quickly. • Provide opportunities for school-aged children to understand the safe use of fire (such as lighting birthday candles) under your supervision. • Teach your child how to say NO when friends suggest playing with fire. Step 3: Set a good example • Emphasize the fire and burn safety rules you follow when using fire. 183037 RR145 (Box 130), Brooks, AB T1R 1B2 Check us out on social media Phone: 403-362-3266 Fax: 866-860-8158 Email: martink@newellmail.ca Web: www.countyofnewell.ab.ca • With your children, regularly inspect your home for fire hazards. • Install and maintain smoke alarms. • Plan and practice home fire escape drills. What to do if your child sets fires As a parent or caregiver of young children, take any fire play seriously. • If your child sets a fire, use an immediate consequence, such as taking away a privilege or using time- out. • Depending on your child’s age, talk (don’t lecture or scold) about the dangers of fire. • Get immediate help if a child sets a second fire. Your call to the fire department will be kept confidential. • Getting help will prevent this behaviour from becoming worse. How to get help • Call your local fire department or your child’s school counselor. Remember children will be curious about fire but it is up to you as their parent or guardian to ensure they are educated not to play with fire. Keep your kid’s safe and remember that “Safety is an Attitude”. Keith R. Martin Manager of Fire & Emergency Services County of Newell Rev. August 21, 2017