Children and Fire
It is a common misconception that it is normal for children to play with fire. It is common for children to be curious about fire but not to play with fire. Playing with fire is extremely dangerous and can lead to very serious injury and even death. If you find that your child is playing with fire it is important that they be taught proper fire safety and the appropriate uses for fire. This education can be done at home but it is still strongly encourage that you contact the fire department for information and guidance. The division of Fire Prevention currently has two personnel trained in Youth Firesetter Intervention. Our personnel can determine that nature of your child's curiosity and recommend the best form of education to prevent further play with fire. Many parents are afraid to report fire play because they believe it will lead to legal action. Our goal is to prevent this behavior and as a result prevent injury or death. We cannot achieve this goal if we are not made aware of the behavior.
Myths About Fire Play
-Myth: It is normal for children to play with fire.
-Fact: Curiosity about fire is common, playing with fire is not.
-Myth: If you burn a child's hand they will stop.
-Fact: Burns only create scars and fear. The uses for fire must be discovered and addressed appropriately.
-Myth: It is just a phase a child will grow out of.
-Fact: Playing with fire is not a phase. It is a dangerous activity and if you wait for a child to "grow out of it" it can have extreme consequences.
-Myth: Youth firesetters are obsessed with fire.
-Fact: Very few children are considered pyromaniacs or are obsessed with fire. There is almost always a reason behind the behavior.