IQALUIT FIRE DEPARTMENT
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Teach preschoolers to be fire safe.
Did you know that children under the age of five are nearly twice as likely to die in a fire than any other age group? The Iqaluit Fire Department urges you to read the following and to teach your preschoolers about the dangers of fire.
The majority of fire fatalities in the preschooler age group occurs as a result of fires set by children themselves - through the use of heating equipment, smoking material or arson. Children have a natural curiosity about everything, including fire. Preschooler fire-related deaths can be reduced by teaching fire safety so children can understand it. It also helps to become more fire safe yourself.
Children should be taught that matches, lighters and cigarettes are not toys; they are for adult-use only. Tell children that only adults should use them. The message must be clear to them: don't play with fire. To do your part, you can be more careful when storing matches and lighters when not in use, preferably higher than a child's reach.
Practice escape plans
Many young children die in fires because they instinctively try to hide. Their bodies are usually found in closets, under beds or piles of clothing. Teach children that they must escape from the fire. Develop escape plans and practice them regularly. All members of the household should know two ways of escaping from every room. Families should also have a meeting area outside of the home so everyone can be accounted for. There will be more information on home-escape plans in this column in the weeks to come.
These are just a few tips you can use to teach your child and your family about being more fire safe. What you practice with your family now may prove to be very important in the future.
Did you know that the fire department will come into your home, free of charge, and help you make your house more fire safe? Call 979-5650 to find out more.
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