Juveniles playing with fire cause hundreds of needless deaths and injuries each year. Do you ever wonder if a child you know is a fire risk? Consider these alarming fire statistics …
85% of people who die in child-set fires in the United States are children.
In Colorado alone, between the years of 1990 to 1995 there were 12,875 fires, 16 deaths and 285 injuries due to juvenile fire play and fire sets.
Between 1990 and 1995, juvenile fires in Colorado increased 58%.
In Colorado, children over the age of 10 can be charged with a crime if they participate in setting a fire.
Parents can be held financially responsible for fire damages to property due to a fire that their child sets.
Serious or repetitive fire setting is often indicative of other emotional or peer problems.
Safety Tips
Store matches and lighters out of children's reach and sight, up high, preferably in a locked cabinet.
Never use lighters or matches as a source of amusement for children; they may imitate you.
If your child expresses curiosity about fire or has been playing with fire, calmly but firmly explain that matches and lighters are tools for adults only.
Use only lighters designed with child-resistant features. Remember child-resistant does not mean child proof.
Teach young children and school-age children to tell an adult if they see matches or lighters.
Never leave matches or lighters in a bedroom or any place where children may go without supervision.
If you suspect your child is intentionally setting fires or unduly fascinated with fire, get help. Contact the Cunningham Fire Prevention Bureau at 303-755-9202 or The Children’s Hospital at 720-777-6661 or www.thechildrenshospital.org.
