Council and democracy

Keeping your children safe from fire....

Kids are very, very vulnerable to fire hazards in and around your home. They are often fascinated by fire – be it matches, candles, bonfires or whatever. And it only takes a split-second or carelessness and tragedy can strike.

As a parent or guardian, it’s mostly up to YOU to teach them about fire safety and to be responsible with fire.

But it’s not about making them terrified of fire. It’s about making them responsible.

Their life, or that of others, might depend on it.

Here’s our advice…

• Consider your own actions with or around fire and how they may influence the behaviour of your children.
• Ensure young children are not left alone in your home
• Keep matches and lighters well out of sight and reach
• Make sure that anyone using matches or lighters in your home does so in a safe way.
• Keep children away from open fires and cookers; always place a secure guard around open fires.
• Teach your children from the outset to show you any unused matches or lighters they may find. Reward them for doing so.
• Think beyond your actual home; consider other fire hazards in garages or sheds.
• Regularly check your home for fire hazards.
• Fit and maintain a smoke alarm and pre-plan with your children how to escape any fires that may occur in your home.

What are the signs that your child may be playing with fire?

• Small burn holes in carpets; charred paper in sinks or waste bins
• Matches or lighters hidden in your child’s clothing or bedroom
• Unexplained fires in your home, garden, or in and around the homes of his / her friends

If you have any concerns regarding a child who may be involved in curiosity firesetting, please call either Stevenage 01438-737399, or Watford 01923-471399, and ask for a Firesetters Advisor.
Or fill in the online form at: www.hertsdirect.org/ufs/ufsmain?formid=FIRESETTERS