Young children are not able to sense danger in the same way as adults. They have a very limited ability to react quickly and properly in an emergency situation as well as little control over their environment. This increases their risk of death and injury in a fire.
Keep matches, lighters and other items used for ignition in a secured drawer or cabinet out of the reach of children.
Teach you children to tell you when they find matches and lighters. Always dress children in pajamas that meet Federal flammability standards. Avoid dressing children for sleep in loose-fitting, 100% cotton garments, such as oversized t-shirts.
Teach children not to hide from firefighters, but to get out quickly and call for help from another location.
Show children how to crawl low on the floor, below the smoke, to get out of the house and stay out.
Demonstrate how to stop, drop to the ground, and roll if clothes catch fire.
Develop and practice a home fire escape plan and designate a meeting place outside. Get out and stay out.
Familiarize children with the sound of your smoke alarm.
Replace mattresses made prior to the 2007 Federal Mattress Flammability Standard.
Check under beds and in closets for burnt matches, evidence your child may be playing with fire