When child's play becomes deadly: little kids setting fires NFPA data show that preschoolers are in greatest danger
Preschoolers are also the ones who most often die from these fires, according to data from the NFPA (National Fire Protection Association). Typically, young children set fires by playing with matches and lighters.
According to an NFPA study, most of the people killed in child-playing fires are under 6, and such fires are the leading cause of fire deaths among preschoolers. From 1994-1998 per year, children playing with fire started 85,620 fires that were reported to U.S. fire departments, causing an estimated 303 deaths, 2,359 injuries and $146.1 million in direct property damage.
In 1994, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) required that disposable cigarette lighters be designed so that children younger than 5 cannot operate them. A study published this year in the journal Injury Prevention found a 58 percent reduction in cigarette-lighter fires caused by children under 5 since the new standard went into effect. The CPSC estimated that this prevented 3,300 fires, 100 deaths and 660 injuries in 1998.
In 1994, the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission (CPSC) required that disposable cigarette lighters be designed so that children younger than 5 cannot operate them. A study published this year in the journal Injury Prevention found a 58 percent reduction in cigarette-lighter fires caused by children under 5 since the new standard went into effect. The CPSC estimated that this prevented 3,300 fires, 100 deaths and 660 injuries in 1998.
- Use only child-resistant lighters, but remember they are not child-proof
- Store all matches and lighters out of children's reach and sight, up high, preferably in a locked cabinet.
- Never leave young children unattended.
- Never use lighters or matches as a source of amusement for children. They may imitate what you do.
- If you suspect your child is playing with fire or unduly fascinated with fire, get help immediately. Your local fire department, school, or community counseling agency can put you in touch with experts trained to help.
- Teach young children to tell an adult if they find matches or lighters, and teach school-age children to bring any matches or lighters to an adult.
- Teach kids to stop, drop and roll if their clothes catch on fire.
- Teach young children when fire strikes, not to hide, but to get out of the house immediately.
