Keeping Children Safe in a Home Fire

7/13/2021 (Permalink)

While no one likes to think about the worst case scenario of a home fire, doing so it imperative to protecting your little ones.

One of the leading causes of death for kids under the age of 15 are burns and fires. Home fires are extremely scary and dangerous, so prevention is essential to keeping children safe. The mindset that it will “never happen to me” is the foundation of home fire danger, as it leads to minimal or no planning and preparation. While it is most important for parents to have a fire safety plan in place, it is also extremely important for children to be prepared as well. Fire safety efforts can truly be the difference between life and death in the event of a home fire.

The U.S. Fire Administration (USFA) recently reported a 4 percent increase in home fires over the last decade. A tiny flame can escalate into a life-threatening fire in only two minutes and with home fires on the rise, homeowners must be vigilant in prevention and preparation. The following recommendations are vital to keeping your children safe in a home fire:

• Regularly speak with your children about fire hazards and home fire safety
• Teach your children about firefighters by taking them to the local fire department – this will ensure that they are not afraid of a firefighter in the event of a fire
• Make sure all lighters and matches are out of reach
• Institute a fire escape plan and practice every 6 months
• Make sure that all smoke alarms in the home are properly functioning
• Practice the STOP-DROP-and-ROLL method
• Keep children away from things like candles and stoves
• Teach children how to dial 9-1-1 in case a parent is unavailable to do so
• Reiterate the importance of evacuation and staying out of the home

While no one likes to think about the worst case scenario of a home fire, doing so it imperative to protecting your little ones. Far too many families who have suffered in a home fire could have prevented injuries with a little practice and preparation.

At SERVPRO of North Palm Beach County, we have over 34 years of experience in fire damage repair and restoration. If you or a loved one have suffered damage in a home fire, contact our fire damage experts today for immediate help.