Manage and Reducing Risks Children
Matches, lighters and candles
Remember to keep things that can cause fires out of children’s reach.
Position lighted candles and tea lights out of reach of children.
Electrics and heaters
Teach children not to poke anything, including fingers, into sockets.
Consider getting plug guards to cover sockets.
Make sure electrical appliances (TVs and computers) in children’s bedrooms are switched off at night.[one_half_last]
Fit a childproof guard in front of open fires or heaters – the best ones can be fixed to the wall.
Make sure children don’t play near fires or heaters to avoid them getting burnt.
The kitchen
As kitchens can be dangerous places for children, avoid leaving them unsupervised
Avoid using the front of the hob when small children are around.
Make sure that saucepan handles don’t stick out to avoid them being knocked off.
What children should Know
You will want to make sure children are always safe. This includes teaching them how to prevent a fire and what to do if there is one. You will probably need to talk about fire safety with children more than once, to make sure that they have remembered and understood what you have taught them. As a general rule younger children, around five and below, should be given clear instructions about what they should and shouldn’t do. With older children, it’s better to explain why.
Not to touch or play with matches, lighters, candles, electrical appliances or sockets.
To tell a grown up if they see matches or lighters lying around.
To be extra careful near fires and heaters.
Never to switch on the cooker.
Not to touch saucepans.
Not to put things on top of heaters or lights.