Parents

Why Prepare?

Every day Americans experience the horror of fire. But most people don't understand fire. Only when we know the true nature of fire can we prepare ourselves and our families. In 2014, 3,275 deaths and 15,775 injuries occurred from fires, many of which could be prevented.
Fire fighters providing a safety demonstration to a crowd.
A child under the age of five is twice as likely to die in a residential fire than the rest of the population. On this page are fire and safety resources to help parents become more knowledgeable with fire prevention.

Fire Safety Tips

Fire is the number one cause of death in the home for children ages 5 to 14, many of whom set these fires themselves, says the National Fire Safety Council (NFSC) in Michigan. Regardless of whether your child is acting maliciously, feeling troubled or just being curious, if you catch him or her playing with matches or starting a fire, you need to act. Talk about fire safety.

For children ages 5 and under, the National Fire Safety Council (NFSC) says parents should:

  • Explain that adults, not children, use fire.
  • Keep matches and lighters out of sight and reach and teach children not to touch them.
  • Never leave children alone near an open flame.
  • Praise children for reporting any lighters or matches they find.
  • Set good examples—children may imitate adults who light cigarettes, candles, etc.
Fire safety education is important for all children and parents to learn.