Each year many children are injured or killed by playing with fire. If your kids are playing with fire they
accident before it happens.
It is normal for a child to have curiosity about fire but when that curiosity is allowed to progress to
playing with fire the outcome can be devastating. Here are some ways to help keep your children safe:
Keep all lighters and matches away from children in a secured area such as a locked cabinet or
drawer. Also it's wise to keep lighter fluid, fuels, candles and other fire-related objects or substances
out of children's reach. Tell children that should they find lighters or matches to tell an adult whether
they are at home or at someone else's house.
Teach children from an early age about fire safety. Don't let fire be a mystery. Explain how fires burn,
spread, destroy, hurt and kill. Make sure they know you cannot hide from fire and, if a fire starts, not to
be afraid of getting in trouble but get help right away. Teach them how to stop, drop and roll, how to
dial 911 and to have an escape plan.
Supervise young children at all times and watch for signs of fire play, such as matches or lighters
found in closets, under beds or in play areas. Look for evidence of burned items.
Be aware of warning signs of fire-starting behaviors such as adding fuel to fires in fireplaces, grills or
campfires despite being told not to, having matches or lighters hidden in her clothing or rooms, or
lighting candles or fireworks or burning things despite being warned against it.
According to the U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) 150 people die and $220 million dollars of property
are destroyed annually due to children playing with fire. Of all fire deaths, children make up 15 to 20
percent. The most likely area for a children to experiment with fire is in their bedrooms, particularly
under beds or in closets where they think they will not be seen or caught. The USFA advises that if a
child is found playing with fire, it's crucial to discuss fire safety and have consequences.
If you would like more information or have questions about keeping your kids safe, please contact the
Summit Fire Department at: 928-526-9537
Are Your Kids Playing with Fire
Summit Fire District
Fire Departments don't succeed, people do.
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Administrative Office - Station 32
8905 N. Koch Field Road, Flagstaff, AZ 86004, 928-526-9537 Office, 928-526-2750 Fax, sfd@summitfiredepartment.org