It only takes minutes for a whole house to burn down and only seconds to have severe, permanent, physical damage as a result of burns. Take time to teach your children about the potential destruction of fire.

How To Prevent

Young Children (0-5)

Children 5 years old and under when involved in firesetting almost always do so due to curiosity. Teach young children that a match is a tool and not a toy. Keep matches, lighters and heat producing appliances out of the reach of children. Teach young children to tell and adult if they find matches or a lighter. Reward them for doing so.

Older Children (6-12)

Children 6 to 12 years old when involved in firesetting may be curious about fire or may have serious problems resulting in firesetting. Set the example for fire safety: have your children watch the way you cool (i.e. turning pot handles away from reach), the way you light a fire or candles and the care you show in teaching them that these tasks must be performed only by adults or children under adult supervision.

Adolescents (13-17)

Children 13 to 17 years of age rarely set fires due to curiosity. Teach and model for you adolescent conflict and stress management skills. Be available for regular communication. Involve your adolescent in decisions that offer her or him. Provide your adolescent with healthy activities (i.e. church, youth group, sports). Encourage positive relationships with peers and adults.