Youth Fire Safety

What You Can Do If Your Child Is Misusing Fire

• Explain the dangers of fire. It grows fast, the smoke can kill, and it cannot be controlled.
• Teach them that fire is a tool for adults and matches and lighters are tools, NOT toys. 
• Create a home fire escape plan.
• Model fire safe behaviors. 
• Keep matches and lighters out of reach (and out of sight).
• In the garage, keep accelerants, such as spray paints, fuels, etc. locked up.
• Supervise your children when they are around candles, campfires, fireplace fires, barbecues, and other open flames. 
• Take fire experimentation and fire setting seriously. If you do nothing, there is a high chance the behavior will continue and escalate. Unintended property damage, injury, or loss of life could be a result.

Helpful Links

• Fire Myths and Facts (PDF)
• Youth Fire Intervention - FAQ (PDF)
• Home Fire Safety Plan
• Parent's Legal Responsibility When Your Child Sets A Fire (PDF)
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