Fire and Burn Prevention

Fire and burn Prevention

Robin @ Kids Matter

Fire prevention week is October 6-12 in Lexington.  This is a good time to make sure your fire extinguisher is in working order, review your family preparedness plans, or make one if you haven’t yet!

Every day at least one child dies from a home fire.  One of the leading causes of residential fire deaths and injuries for children under the age of 10 is playing with a heat source, which includes lighters and matches.  From these incidents, children under age 10 account for 93 percent of deaths and 38percent of injuries.  Open flames are not the only things that can cause injury.  Kitchen equipment and drinks account for more than half of all scald and burn injuries.

Fire and burn safety essentials

Ø Install smoke alarms on every level of your home and in sleeping areas.

Ø Replace smoke alarm batteries once a year.

Ø Make and practice a fire-escape plan.  Have two ways out of every room.

Ø Store matches and lighters in locked cabinets.

Ø Make the stove a “kid-free zone.”

Ø Never leave the kitchen unattended while cooking.

Ø Keep hot foods and liquids away from children.

Ø Place space heaters at least 3 feet from anything that could catch fire.

Ø Set water heater to 120 degrees (Fahrenheit).          

For more information, contact Safe Kids at 859-323-1153 or www.safekidsfayettecounty.com