………Matches & Lighters……..

Children must be taught not to play with, or even touch matches and lighters. Rather they should be instructed to tell an adult if they find matches or lighters. The following suggestions my seem like common sense, but the sad truth is that fire statistics prove otherwise:

 Explain the hazards and consequences of playing with fire.

 Remember that children will tend to do what they see. Therefore, consider NOT using these items in view of children.

 Always keep matches and lighters well out of reach of children.

 Instruct children to always tell an adult immediately if they find matches or a lighter. And of course, react immediately by properly stowing the item in a safe place and give praise to the child for being so attentive to fire safety.

 Remember that adult fire play can encourage child fire play.

 When purchasing lighters, be sure they have child resistive mechanisms as required by the Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC). Despite CPSC requirements, many lighters enter the US retail market. Be alert to this fact and report any such lighter to the Shelton Fire Prevention Bureau and/or the CPSC directly.

 Avoid use of novelty type lighters that may be attractive to children.

Always have working smoke alarms installed on every level of your home, test them monthly and keep them clean and equipped with fresh batteries at all times. Know when and how to call for help. And remember to practice your home escape plan.

More Information: Shelton Fire Marshals Office at 924-1555, CPSC website above or US Fire Administration website: www.usfa.fema.gov