Fire Smart - Advice On Firesetting For Parents And Guardians

Fire Smart

Greater Manchester Fire and Rescue Service (GMFRS) have developed FireSmart to offer free education and advice to anyone aged 17 years and under who may be exhibiting signs of firesetting behaviour.

Our aim is to work directly with children, young people and their families to increase fire safety awareness and reduce the risk of harm through active discussion about the dangers of fire.

Once a young person is referred onto the programme, GMFRS will arrange for a Home Safety Check to be carried out as soon as possible at the residence of the child or young person. GMFRS has developed FireSmart to offer free education and advice to anyone aged 17 years and under who may be showing signs of fire setting behaviour. The sessions usually take about an hour and can take place at the young person’s home or an agreed location.

Firesetting

Young people may show signs of fire setting behaviour for many reasons – anger, frustration, excitement, attention seeking or peer pressure.

Children can often be fascinated by the way fire looks, by fireworks or even blowing out candles on a cake which is a natural curiosity. But for some young people, this interest in fire can develop into something dangerous.

Signs to look out for

• Small burn holes in carpets, or scorch marks on furniture, bedding or toys.
• Charred paper left in sinks or waste bins.
• Matches or lighters hidden in the child's bedroom, clothing or school bag.
• An unusual fascination with fire.
• Fires in and around the home that cannot be explained.

What should I do if am concerned?

Consider your own actions and how they may influence the behaviour of the children and young people for whom you are responsible.

By reading this and acting on its advice, you could reduce the risk of your child setting a devastating fire.

Greater Manchester Fire & Rescue Service offer education and advice to anyone aged 17 years and under who may be exhibiting signs of fire setting behaviour. 

Advice for parents and guardians

• Make sure that all lighters and matches in the home are stored out of sight and well out of reach of children and young people. 
• Never leave children alone in the house, even for small periods of time.
• Search for lighters and/or matches in bedrooms and school bags.
• Carry out regular checks for signs of fire setting, such as burn marks on carpets, beds and furniture – particularly in the child’s room.
• Explain to the young person that fire is a tool, not a toy. Talk about the different ways adults use fire, such as candles on a birthday cake and a gas hob for cooking.
• Teach children to stay away from fires as they are dangerous, can hurt and kill.
• Keep outbuildings, garden sheds and garages locked to prevent access to flammable items.
• Make sure the home is fitted with working smoke alarms and test them weekly by pressing the test button.
• Make a home fire safety plan with your family and practice it.
• If a fire does occur, warn the rest of the family then GET OUT, STAY OUT, CALL 999.