Children Playing with Fire

Children playing with matches, lighters and fire cause hundreds of deaths and injuries each year. Preschoolers and kindergartners are most likely to start these fires, and are most likely to die in them.

Safety Tips:

• Store matches and lighter out of children's reach and sight, up high, preferably in a locked cabinet.
• Never use lighters or matches as a source of amusement for children; they may imitate you.
• If your child expresses curiosity about fire or has been playing with fire, calmly but firmly explain that matches and lighters are tools for adults only.
• Use only lighters designed with child-resistant features. Remember child-resistant does not mean child proof.
• Teach young children and school-age children to tell an adult if they see matches or lighters.
• Never leave matches or lighters in a bedroom or any place where children may go without supervision.
• If you suspect your child is intentionally setting fires or unduly fascinated with fire, get help. The Overland Park Fire Department has a confidential program that teaches children how to be safe from fire and to make good choices with fire. For more information about the program call 913-895-8400.

Source: National Fire Protection Association