Child Safety Week 18/06/07

Date:   18^th June 2007

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service are supporting national Child Safety Week by urging parents to make sure that homes are safe from fire. In 2005, there were 67 deaths and 3,457 injuries to children and young people (aged 24 or under).

Fire and Rescue Service spokesperson, Station Manager Carl Boasman Says:"When it comes to fire safety and children, prevention is better than cure. A child can start a fire in moments, but only if they have the means to do so. The best way to teach children is by example. Let your children see you being sensible and careful about cooking, candles, smoking and other potential fire risks."

These are the rules children need to learn as they're growing up.

• Never play with matches or lighters.
• Never play with a lighted candle.
• Don't play close to a fire or heater, or leave toys near a fire or heater.
• Don't pull on electric cables or fiddle with electrical appliances or sockets.
• Never switch on the cooker. Never put anything on top of the cooker.
• Don't touch any saucepans on the cooker.
• Don't put things on top of heaters or lights.
• If you see matches or lighters lying around, tell a grown-up.

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service offer a free Home Fire Risk check to every home. During this check, potential hazards can be identified and smoke alarms fitted. Smoke alarms give vital early warning in the event of a fire starting, allowing you and your family to escape safely.

Children need to be taught what to do in the event of a fire. Station Manager Carl Boasman explains: "It's important to talk through with children what to do if there's a fire. Don't avoid it for fear of frightening them. Children need to know the basics of how to react to a fire. They may not have an adult to tell them what to do. In fact, if they react quickly and well they may end up saving your life."

For fire Safety advice or to book a free Home Fire Risk check, call 01609 788545. Visit the website http://www.northyorksfire.gov.uk/

North Yorkshire Fire and Rescue Service offer a free, confidential helpline for advice and assistance with child fire setters. If you think your child needs help with a fire related matter, call 0800 074 0064