Curious Kids & Fire
Statistics
Children under five are curious about fire. Often what begins as a natural exploration of the unknown can lead to tragedy. For more information on juvenile firesetter intervention programs, call 503.831.3531 Monday through Friday 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.
Facts regarding curious kids:
- Children set over 100,000 fires every year
- Children make up 24% of all fire deaths
- Children playing with fire set 45% of the fires that kill children under 5
- Children playing with fire do so in bedrooms, closets, and under beds where there are a lot of things that catch fire easily
- Children having a history of playing with fire are not often given proper guidance and supervision
Safety in the Home
- Supervise young children closely. Do not leave them alone even for short periods of time.
- Keep matches and lighters in a secured drawer or cabinet.
- Have your children tell you when they find matches and lighters.
- Check under beds and in closets for burned matches or other evidence that your child may be playing with fire.
- Develop a home fire escape plan and practice it with your children. Practice frequently!
- Designate a meeting place outside.
- Teach children the nature of fire. It is Hot, Fast, Dark and Deadly!
- Teach children not to hide from firefighters.
- Show children how to crawl low on the floor and below the smoke. Get out and stay out!
- Demonstrate how to stop, drop to the ground, and roll if their clothes catch fire.
- Familiarize children with the sound of your smoke detector.
- Replace your smoke detector every 10 years.
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