The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) reports that last year, more than 30,000 fires were intentionally set, resulting in over 300 deaths. And according to FBI arson statistics, more than half of these fires are being set by juveniles.
Even just playing with fire can have devastating consequences. Hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries occur ever year from these mistakes. Kids need to understand that fire is not a game.
Most kids who are setting fires are using household items such as matches, lighters, and candles. Sometimes these incidents are simply due to a kid’s fascination with fire which gets out of control, but in some cases a child playing with fire may be due to some other problem. The National Fire Prevention Association (NFPA) offers parents a few tips to help teach children about the dangers of playing with fire, and how you can help to prevent a tragedy:
- Always store matches, candles, and lighters far out of reach of children.
- Don’t play with fire to amuse children; they might try to imitate you.
- Always try to reinforce the idea that matches and lighters are only tools for adults.
- Teach young kids to tell an adult if they find matches or lighters lying.
- If you think your kids are overly fascinated with fire or playing with fire, try to get help. Get in touch with their school or your local fire department for advice.
Check out the NFPA website for more information on preventing fires, and for tips on how you and your family can be prepared in case you experience a fire in your home. Also, check out FEMA’s US Fire Administration minisite to find interactive games and information to share with your kids.
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