|
GHF&MO
| |
During the
summer, especially around the Fourth of July holiday, the number of children
playing with fire increases dramatically. Many children who are allowed to
use fireworks and ignition sources continue to do so after July 4th. Once
children are given the opportunity to use matches and lighters, it is very
difficult to take back that empowerment.
Children are naturally curious about fire. However, most don’t understand the
real dangers or consequences. Many children think they can control a fire, when
in reality a fire can get out of hand very quickly.
The consequences of just one fire play incident can be devastating to a family
and community. In addition to burn injury, loss of life and property damage,
families can be held financially and legally responsible.
As a parent, here are some steps you can take to help keep your child and family
safe:
Find out what your child already
knows about fire safety. This gives you a foundation to build on.
Put matches, lighters and ignition
devices in a safe, secure place. Treat these items as you would a dangerous
weapon. Ask your children where the matches and lighters are located in your
house; you’ll be surprised to learn what they know.
Set clear rules and expectations.
Young children should "tell" a grown-up if they find matches and lighters so
adults can put them in a secure place. As children get older they can "give"
the ignition devices to you. When you feel it is appropriate, teach children
how to use fire in a safe and appropriate manner, under adult supervision.
Talk about peer pressure and what
your child should do if they are around other kids who are playing with
fire. Even if your child is simply watching, they can still get in trouble
for just being there. Teach them to leave the situation and report it to an
adult.
Talk about the consequences of fire
property damage, injury, and loss of life. If you had a fire, how would it
change your life and the lives of others? There can also be legal
consequences children may be unaware of. Starting at age 12, children can be
charged for setting a fire.
Make sure your child is being
supervised. Most children who play with fire have easy access to ignition
devices and are not being supervised at the time of the incident.
Practice fire safety in your home.
Install and maintain smoke detectors, take measures to prevent fires, and
develop and practice a home escape plan.
Children play with fire for many
reasons. Young children may set fires out of curiosity or as a cry for help.
Older adolescents may set fires as a prank or dare. Whatever the motivation,
early identification and intervention is critical.
Gig Harbor Fire & Medic One provides a free and confidential
education/intervention program called "Fire Stoppers" to help kids who play
with fire. For more information about this program and home fire safety,
contact the Prevention Division at 253-851-5111.
|