Kids, never play with matches and lighters ! Parents, keep these sources of fire in locked drawers. Consider buying only "child-proof" lighters -- but be aware that no product is completely child-proof.
Children as young as two years old can strike matches and start fires.
Never leave children unattended near operating stoves or burning candles, even for a short time. In fact, never leave candles unattended for any reason.
Teach children not to pick up matches or lighters they may find. Instead, they should tell an adult immediately.
Smoke alarms should be installed on every level of the home, especially near sleeping areas.
Smoke alarms should be kept clean of dust by regularly vacuuming over and around them.
Replace batteries in smoke alarms at least once a year. And replace the entire unit after ten years of service, or as the manufacturer recommends.
Families should plan and practice two escape routes from each room of their home.
Regularly inspect the home for fire hazards.
If there is a fireplace in the home, the entire opening should be covered by a heavy safety screen. The chimney should be professionally inspected and cleaned annually.
Children should cook only under the supervision of an adult or with their permission. Remember not to reach over a stove wearing long sleeves that hang down. They could catch on fire. Pots on stovetops should always have their handles turned toward the center of the stove, where children cannot reach up and pull or knock them off.
Children should stay away from radiators and heaters, and they should be taught that these devices are not toys. Young children in particular must be taught not to play with or drop anything into space heaters. Nothing should be placed or stored on top of a heater.
Teach children to turn off lights, stereos, TVs, and other electrical equipment when they are finished using them. In the case of room heaters, children should ask an adult to turn it off when the room will be empty.
No one should stand too close to a fireplace or wood stove or other types of heaters, where clothes could easily catch fire.
Children should never touch matches, lighters, or candles. If they find matches or lighters within reach, they should ask an adult to move them.
