Fire is the leading cause of unintentional home injury deaths among young children. Many fires happen simply because matches, lighters, and other paraphernalia are left within reach of a child.


Here are some tips for keeping your family safe:

  • Keep matches and lighters up high, preferably in a locked cabinet.

  • Ensure children are kept away from fire sources, including lit candles, cigarettes, bonfires, and stoves.

  • Teach children to never touch matches or lighters, and to tell an adult when matches or lighters are found.

  • Explain that fire moves very quickly, and can hurt as soon as it touches you.

  • Establish clear rules and consequences about unsupervised and unauthorized use of fire.

  • Be a good example! Always use sources of fire safely, and never treat them as toys.

  • Give praise for showing respect and responsible behavior toward fire.


For more resources and information, check out the NFPA website.