Juvenile Firesetting

Parents are the first step in preventing fire setting by children. Remember that matches and lighters should always be kept out of the reach of young children. When determining where to place matches and lighters remember that as a rule the space from the floor to an adult?s shoulder height should be kept free of all firesetting materials.

Be especially aware that disposable lighters look like toys to young children who are developing color awareness. Very little pressure is required so that even a very young child can ignite a disposable lighter.

For older children fire play is a very serious matter. Don?t assume that fire setting is just a phase with your child. Children who set fires or play with fire can be a serious threat to themselves and others. Children who set fires may need counseling to help them determine WHY they set fires so that future fire setting behavior can be prevented.

For further information on preventing juvenile fire setting please contact the Fire Prevention Bureau at 286-3350 or e-mail them at Fire@fostercity.org.