Playing with fire has caused serious damage to property and loss of lives; most of them were involved with children.
It’s essential that kids are taught about fire safety and ways to prevent a fire from occurring. They should also be educated on how to protect themselves in the event of a fire. Mentioned below are tips on ensuring kids fire safety.
- Don't play with matches or lighters
This is the most common and important rule that kids should follow. Kids must learn the consequences of playing with fire. Safe kids should never use them without adult supervision and permission.
- Completely extinguish matches by running them under water before discarding
This can be taught by example. When kids see adults run water over a match before tossing it into the trash bin, they will follow this in the future. This ensures that paper in the trash does not accidentally ignite.
- Never leave candles or incense burning
Older children must know that leaving exposed heat sources can be dangerous if left unattended
Older children must know that leaving exposed heat sources, such as burning candles and incense, can be dangerous if left unattended.
Teach them to turn off space heaters and blow off candles or incense when they leave the room. This can also be taught to younger ones, too.
- Do not over plug
Because of the development of technology today, there are more electronic devices. Older children must be taught not to plug too many devices in a single outlet, whether through extension cords or power strips. Younger kids should ask for adults to plug their devices.
- Don't play near the fireplace or stove
Playing near the fireplace or stove could increase the risk and probability of loose materials getting too near to the open flame. Or worse, their loose clothing might catch fire.
- Store flammable materials away from the stove
For kids who are learning to cook, they should know how to keep things like dish towels and oven mitts away from open flame or source of heat. These items could catch fire in a split second.
- Establish and practice an escape plan
An escape plan should be included in maintaining fire safety kids should know. In the event of a fire, children should know what to do and practice them regularly.
- Get low, get out
Smoke inhalation is the most common cause of death in fire-related incidents. In the event of a fire, the kids should learn the proper technique of getting out of the building safely - get low and get out.
- Stop, drop, and roll
Kids should learn what to do if their clothes catch fire. This is a classic fire safety tip for both kids and adults. Show them how to put out the fire by practicing this technique with them.
- Never hide in closets or under the bed
Teach the kids to never hide in closets and under the beds in case of fire. This could cause suffocation.
- Leave belongings
Nothing is more important than kids’ lives. Belongings should be left in case of a fire in the building and never go back inside the building to save them.
- Don't use the elevator
For those who live in an apartment building, make sure their kids know how to use the stairs. Elevators should never be used in an emergency.
- Once in a safe place, call emergency responders
If kids are left with no adults, they should know how to find a safe place and call emergency responders once they are out of danger.
Need for Adequate fire protection equipment
Help the kids stay safe by providing the home with adequate fire protection equipment and ensuring that the home is safe against fire. Always remember, practice what is preached at home.
Visit FCF now to ensure that homes are protected from the risk and hazards of fire. They offer an intensive fire protection services, including supply, installation and maintenance.
