What can I do?

Never leave matches or lighters around the house, even in pockets or handbags.

Lock them away or put them out of reach.

Tell your child from an early age:·

• never to touch matches and lighters;
• they are dangerous and can burn,
• they are for grown-ups with no exceptions.

Is my child curious?

Look for the signs:

• Burnt matches lying around
• Burnt pieces of paper left about
• Scorch marks on carpets or soft furnishings in their bedroom

What can I do now?

• Stay calm.
• Don't frighten or punish your child for being curious.

However:

• They must understand the danger they are in.
• Talk about the consequences.
• Seek help.
• Talk to a trusted member of the family or a close friend.
• Make sure you have a fireplan and working smoke alarms.

Contact Us

• Don't panic.
• Act promptly - help is only a phone call away. (0800 917 8137)
• Contact us in confidence.

What happens now?

• Most children show a natural interest and curiosity about fire.
• We work with individual children at home to teach fire safe behaviours and help children overcome fear and curiosity through a gradual process that is under proper adult supervision and guidance.
• We do not punish children but help them to change their dangerous fire-setting behaviour.
• Don't allow fire to destroy your family. The results can be devastating.

To talk to someone confidentially for advice or for a home visit if you would like one please contact 0800 917 8137.