Kids Ask Sparky the Fire Dog

by Sparky
May 24, 2009

Here’s your chance to ask me questions you may about safety. I’ll try to answer as many questions as I can, but I receive a lot of mail, so don’t be discouraged if you don’t see your question right away. Be sure to include your first name, your age, and your hometown.

(Q) What is fire safety?

(A)  Fire safety means taking simple steps to prevent fires from starting.
 
(Q) How can I be safe from fire?
(A) There are many steps you can take to be safe from fire, and they’re all easy. Following are ten key tips to stay fire-safe:

•  
  1. In the kitchen, keep your stove clean and uncluttered. Make sure a grown-up stands next to the stove all the time when something is cooking on it.
  2. If there are adults in your home who smoke, they should use large, non-tip ashtrays. When they’re finished smoking, they should either flush the cigarette butts down the toilet or rinse them with water before throwing them away.
  3. If you see matches or lighters, don’t touch them! Tell a grown-up where you found them and ask to have the matches and lighters locked up high and away from all kids in your home.
  4. If your family uses portable or space heaters, make sure they’re at least three feet away from walls, furniture, and anything that can burn. Turn them off when you leave the room or go to sleep!
  5. If your home has a fireplace, make sure there’s a sturdy screen in front of it when it’s being used. Only put kindling in the fireplace to keep a fire going Ð don’t burn wrapping paper or other items in your fireplace.
  6. Make sure electrical cords are in good condition. (Ask a grown-up to unplug appliances before you inspect the cords.)
  7. Keep paint, gasoline, and other flammable liquids stored away from heat, flame, and sparks.
  8. Make sure candles holders are heavy, sturdy, and large enough to hold candles upright.
  9. Check to see that there’s at least one smoke alarm on every level of your home and in or near all sleeping areas. Ask a grown-up to help you push the test button to make sure they’re working.
  10. Keep all the exits in your home clear of toys, trash, and clutter.

 Source: Sparky