Handbooks and Publications - Fire Prevention | Page 32

Fire Prevention Tips
Child and Fire:
-Child sets fires to impress peers, out of boredom, defiance, or peer pressure
Risk:

-Can cause harm to self and others

Treatment:
-Restitution and education

PROBLEM
Child:
-Usually 7-12 years old
-Almost always boys; history of school and social problem
-Almost always alone
-Other aggressive and problem behaviours
Fire:

-Random or ritualized usually in or around the home

Child and Fire:
-Often no clear cut motivation for fire-setting
Risks:
-Very high recidivism
Treatment:
-Counseling

YOU CAN PREVENT MOST FIRESETTING
1. Teach very young children that fire is a tool we use to cook food or heat
the home. It is not magic, but it is dangerous and only for adults to use
carefully. (Use the example of driving a car or using power tools.)
2. Keep all matches and lighters out of the reach of very young children.
Even a 2-year-old can easily work a cigarette lighter!
3. Have all children bring matches to you and reward them or praise them
when they do.
4. If an older child is curious about matches, show him the proper and
safe way to use them. Explain why it is important to use matches only
when needed and with an adult present.
5. Set a good example: always be careful with matches and fire. Keep your
home fire safe and let your children help you.
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