🔥 Children and Fire Safety
Children and Fire
Every year, hundreds of children around the world die in home fires started by children who were using or playing with matches or lighters.
Many of these fires begin through simple curiosity — children wanting to see what fire does — while others are started deliberately as acts of vandalism.
Children naturally have a fascination with fire. If your child shows curiosity about fire, or if you discover they have been playing with matches or lighters, stay calm and respond wisely. Explain clearly that matches and lighters are tools for adults to use carefully, not toys.
Find safe ways to satisfy their curiosity by letting them safely participate under supervision — for example, letting them blow out candles or help place charcoal in the grill before you light it. As children grow, they can learn to use fire safely, but always with an adult present.
Keep Matches and Lighters Away from Children
Children as young as two years old have been known to start fires with matches and lighters. Treat these items as you would a dangerous weapon — store them high and out of reach, ideally in a locked cabinet.
Teach young children that if they see matches or lighters, they should not touch them but should immediately tell an adult where they are. School-age children can be taught to safely bring them to an adult so that the hazard is removed from younger children’s reach.
Don’t Leave Children Unattended
Even well-hidden matches or lighters can be found by curious children. Never leave children unattended where they might have access to potential fire-starting materials.
If You Smoke
Careless smoking causes many fatal house fires each year and millions of dollars in property damage. Always check for hidden embers — cigarettes can smolder under furniture cushions for hours before igniting a full fire.
- Before leaving any room where people have been smoking, check for hot ashes, embers, or matches in and around furniture.
- Use deep, sturdy ashtrays and fill them with water before emptying them into the trash.
- Never leave a lit cigarette unattended — as it burns down, it can roll out of the ashtray and start a fire.
- Never smoke in bed or when you are drowsy.
Just Remember
Fires started by matches and lighters claim many lives each year — most of which could be prevented by following a few simple precautions:
- Store matches and lighters out of children’s reach.
- Teach children that matches and lighters are tools for adults, not toys.
If you suspect your child is setting fires, contact the Zion Fire & Rescue Department immediately for assistance and education resources.
If you smoke, use extreme caution and always check for smoldering cigarettes or embers before leaving a room.