The US Fire Administration reviews and collects resources that can be used in public outreach activities to help keep kids safe from fire. In honor of Fire Prevention Week - we thought we'd bring you some...

Statistically

  • 57% of all child fire deaths occur to children four or younger
  • Fire injuries are also highest in the four and under group, decline in the middle years and rise again in the 10 to 14 age group
  • Boys are at higher risk of death from fire than girls

Fire deaths can be reduced by teaching people the basic facts about fire. Below are some simple ways to help you explain to community members the characteristics of fire.

Fire is FAST!

There is little time!In less than 30 seconds a small flame can get completely out of control and turn into a major fire. It only takes minutes for thick black smoke to fill a house. In minutes, a house can be engulfed in flames. If you wake up to a fire, you won't have time to grab valuables because fire spreads too quickly and the smoke is too thick. There is only time to escape.

Fire is HOT!

Heat is more threatening than flames.A fire's heat alone can kill. Room temperatures in a fire can be 100 degrees at floor level and rise to 600 degrees at eye level. Inhaling this super-hot air will scorch your lungs. This heat can melt clothes to your skin. In five minutes a room can get so hot that everything in it ignites at once: this is called flashover.

Fire is DARK!

Fire isn't bright, it's pitch black.Fire starts bright, but quickly produces black smoke and complete darkness. If you wake up to a fire you may be blinded, disoriented and unable to find your way around the home you've lived in for years.

Fire is DEADLY!

Smoke and toxic gases kill more people than flames do.Fire uses up the oxygen you need and produces smoke and poisonous gases that kill. Breathing even small amounts of smoke and toxic gases can make you drowsy, disoriented and short of breath. The odorless, colorless fumes can lull you into a deep sleep before the flames reach your door. You may not wake up in time to escape.

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