Continued:

Safety tips
• It has been proven that providing fire safety lessons at an early age can save lives.

• Teach older children to use fire responsibly, and only under direct adult supervision.

• Involve children in all fire safety activities, such as developing a fire escape plan and checking that the smoke detectors work properly.

• Store matches and lighters out of children's reach and sight, up high, preferably in a locked cabinet.

• Never use lighters or matches as a source of amusement for children. They may imitate what you do. If your child expresses curiosity about fire or has been playing with fire, calmly but firmly explain that matches and lighters are tools for adults only. Do not scare children.

• Use only lighters designed with child-resistant features. But remember child-resistant does not mean child proof.

• Teach young children to tell an adult if they see matches or lighters, and teach school-age children to bring any matches or lighters to an adult.

• Never leave matches or lighters in a bedroom or any place where children may go without supervision.

• If you suspect your child is intentionally setting fires or unduly fascinated with fire, get help. Your local fire marshal or police department can put you in touch with trained experts.

• Fire safety starts with parents. Set a good example by practicing fire safe behavior.

• Involve children in all fire safety activities, such as developing a fire escape plan and checking that the smoke detectors work properly. Practice your escape plan with your children.

• Emphasize to your child that the correct response during a fire is to escape, and that they should never hide.

• Small children should be supervised by an adult at all times. In a matter of seconds a child can find themselves into trouble.

Fire safety is something that everyone needs to be aware of 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Do not wait until it is too late, practice fire safety every day! If you have any questions or comments about this article, or any other fire safety subject, please feel free to call the Fire Company at 215-646-2555 or stop into either fire station any Monday night. The Fire Prevention Committee is available to present programs upon request. Visit the Fort Washington Fire Company on the Internet at www.fortwashingtonfc.org.