Matches and Lighters

Each year hundreds of children die in home fires started by children who were using matches or lighters. Children as young as two have started fires with matches and lighters. If you live with children or have children that visit, treat matches and lighters as you would a dangerous weapon. Store them up high, out of reach and sight, preferably in a locked cabinet.


Use only lighters designed with child resistant features. These lighters are difficult for most young children to operate but DON'T TAKE CHANCES! Keep all matches and lighters out of children's reach.

Many children who start fires are merely curious about fire; others are using fire in anger or as a cry for help or as an act of vandalism. Any act of fire setting, regardless of motivation, is dangerous and must be handled properly.

Teach your children to tell an adult if they find matches or lighters or see another child using matches and lighters. Remember fires started by matches and lighters in the hands of children claim hundreds of lives each year. Most of these deaths and injuries can be prevented by a few simple precautions.

• Store matches and lighters out of children's sight and reach.
• Teach children that matches and lighters are tools for adults, not toys.
• If you suspect your child is setting fires, ask the Fire Department for help.