Fire Prevention Month: How Kids Can Stay Safe and Prepared!

October is Fire Prevention Month, an important time to learn about fire safety! Fires can be scary, but knowing what to do can help keep everyone safe. We will share some easy ways kids can prepare for and prevent fires, making safety fun and understandable.

1. Learn the Sound of Smoke Alarms

One of the most important things kids need to know is what a smoke alarm sounds like. It’s a loud beeping noise that lets you know there may be smoke or fire nearby. Make sure your home has smoke alarms, and help your parents test them every month to be sure they’re working.

Fun tip: You can even have a “smoke alarm drill” and see who can be the fastest to react when you hear the beep!

2. Create and Practice a Fire Escape Plan

It’s a good idea to have a plan for what to do if there’s a fire at home. Work with your parents to create an escape route from every room in your house. Make sure there are at least two ways to exit each room in case one path is blocked.

Once the plan is ready, practice it often! You should know exactly where to meet outside, like at a neighbor’s house or under a big tree.

3. Stop, Drop, and Roll

What happens if your clothes catch on fire? You need to remember the three important words: Stop, Drop, and Roll.

1. Stop what you’re doing.
2. Drop to the ground.
3. Roll around to smother the flames.

This simple technique can save lives, so it’s important to know how to do it.

4. Don’t Play with Matches or Lighters

Matches and lighters are tools for adults, not toys for kids. Playing with them can lead to dangerous situations. If you ever find matches or lighters, tell an adult right away and never try to use them yourself.

5. Know How to Dial 911

In case of an emergency, you need to know how to get help. Practice dialing 911 and explain your emergency to the operator. It’s always best to know your address and be able to explain clearly where help is needed.

6. Firefighters Are Your Friends

Firefighters may look a little scary when they’re in all their gear, but they’re there to help you! During Fire Prevention Month, many schools and communities invite firefighters to talk about safety. It’s a great opportunity to ask them questions and see their cool equipment up close.

Fun idea: Draw or color a picture of a firefighter to show your appreciation for the hard work they do!

7. Help Keep Your Home Safe

Kids can help prevent fires by reminding parents to follow some basic fire safety rules.

Here are a few to remember:

• Keep flammable items (like paper or curtains) away from heaters or stoves.
• Never leave a candle burning without an adult nearby.
• Keep an eye on the stove when cooking.
• Use flashlights, not candles, during a power outage.

8. Make Fire Safety Fun

Learning about fire safety doesn’t have to be boring! You can play games like a fire escape race, watch educational cartoons about fire safety, or even take a trip to your local fire station to meet real-life heroes!