Fire Safety Information for Children

Teaching your children about fire safety can save their lives. It is never too early to start talking to your kids about the dangers of fire and ways they can protect themselves. Being prepared for a fire emergency is the first step to surviving it.

Detectors

• Install smoke detectors near the kitchen, stairways and each bedroom. Explain to your children what the smoke detectors are for. Check all detectors monthly to make sure they are operational and change the batteries at least once a year. Including your children in this monthly check can help to educate them on the importance of fire safety. Consider purchasing dual detectors that alarm you not only of the presence of smoke but also of carbon monoxide, an invisible but deadly gas.

Drills

• Design an escape plan for each room in the house should a fire erupt. Explain the plan to your children and engage the family in monthly drills to practice escaping from various locations in the home. If children sleep in a second- or third-floor room, keep collapsible escape ladders on hand. These ladders are available at many home stores and online. Teach your children how to operate the ladder and have them demonstrate its use.

Home Safety

• Teach your children about the "stop, drop and roll" technique of extinguishing themselves should they catch fire. Keep all fireplaces and kerosene heaters well-guarded and be certain that children understand the danger of getting too close to these. Post a note by each phone reminding children to call 911 in the case of an emergency. Make certain any flammable liquids, matches or lighters are safely out of reach. Explain why these items are dangerous.

Cooking

• To ensure the child's safety in and around the kitchen, explain to them exactly which areas are dangerous and why. Keep a fire extinguisher in the kitchen and teach older children how to use it. Never leave the handles of pots on the stove within a child's reach. Do not store snacks or treats in cabinets above the range where children are likely to try to climb up. If they are old enough, teach your kids how to properly and safely operate a stove, oven, toaster and microwave.

Fire Play

• Some children inevitably develop a strong fascination with fire and become curious about their ability to start a fire. Obviously this fascination can have very dire consequences. If you suspect your child is engaging in fire play (setting fires) there are several steps you can take. Call your local fire department and see if they offer fire safety training for your child. Be extra vigilant about keeping flammable liquids, matches and lighters out of reach. In severe cases, a child can become obsessive about fire play and may require the aide of a mental health professional.