Fire Safety
Classes:
Introduction > Take the Test > Fire Prevention > Be Prepared > Special Considerations > Smoking and Fires > Fire Safety Quick List
Fire Prevention: Children and Developmentally Incapacitated Adults
Children and mentally challenged adults are one of the top five causes of fires and are more likely to be injured or killed by a home fire than adults. So, it's important to teach them about fire safety and to protect both them and your home. You may want to print off the safety tips at the end of this class and post them someplace easy to see, like your refrigerator.
Another way to teach children about fire safety that's both educational and fun is to use games and Web sites specifically for children. Check out these kids' pages from national organizations:
- National Fire Protection Agency Kids' Page, http://www.nfpa.org/sparky/arcade.html
- Smokey the Bear, http://www.smokeybear.com/
- United States Fire Administration Kids' Page, http://www.usfa.fema.gov/kids/
Be sure the child or mentally challenged adult in your household understands the basics of fire safety. In addition, keep fire hazards like lighters, matches and the stove out of their reach. Last, make sure that they know what to do in case of a fire emergency - have an escape plan and practice 'fire drills.' For more information, see the section on Alternate Exits/Escape Plans.
If you or other members of your household are confined to bed or physically disabled, inform your local fire department so they can be better prepared in case of an emergency.
Next: Be Prepared: Smoke Detectors
