Know the Facts:In 1999, 650 children ages 14
and under died in home fires, and another 2,500 (roughly) suffered non-fatal
injuries in reported fires. Young children are at particular risk of death
in fire, with kids ages five and under twice as likely to die in a fire as
the rest of the population. In 1999, more than half of the children killed
in home fires fell within the five and under age group.
Child-playing is the leading cause of fires leading to deaths of preschoolers;
most child-playing fires involve matches and lighters.
In 2001, an estimated 99,400 children ages 14 and under were treated in hospital
emergency rooms for burn-related injuries. Young children are particularly
vulnerable to burn-related injury and death. Young children's skin is thinner
than adults' and can suffer serious deep burns more quickly.
Safety Basics
Smoke alarms save lives. Having a smoke alarm in your home cuts your chance of
dying in a fire nearly in half! Install at least one smoke alarm on each level
of your home and outside each sleeping area. Smoke alarms should be
tested
once a month and batteries replaced once a year or when the alarm "chirps",
warning
that the battery is low.
Fire can grow and spread very quickly. Everyone should know exactly what to
do in a fire so they can escape quickly and safely. Develop and practice a home
fire escape plan with your family. For a step-by-step guide to home fire escape
planning and practice, visit
Escape With the Miller Family.
Keep matches and all lighters up high and out of children's sight and reach,
preferably in a locked cabinet; keep kids well away from cooking areas, lit
candles, and space heaters.
It is important for children to learn and practice fire safety messages. Here are some helpful fire safety rules for children:
- Plan and practice a home fire escape plan.
- Know what to do when the smoke alarm sounds.
- Stop, drop, and roll if clothes catch fire. STOP immediately where you are.
DROP to the ground. ROLL over and over, covering your face and mouth with your
hands.
- "Cool a burn" any time you burn your skin. If you get burned by touching
a hot object or liquid, cool the area with cool water for 3-5 minutes.
Tell a grown-up about the burn.
- Matches and lighters are not toys. They are tools for grown-ups only. Tell a grown-up if you find matches or lighters.
Parents, looking for ways to teach your kids about these important messages - visit the Parents' Page!
Data Sources: NFPA
, National Safe Kids Campaign®
