There can be many possible causes of fires. Child care providers need to know ways to prevent fires as well as what to do in the event of a fire. Fires can engulf a building in a matter of minutes so having a plan to get children out safely is important.
Before a Fire
- Make sure a fire escape plan is part of your emergency plan
- Practice regular evacuation drills
- Make sure your smoke detectors are in working order and tested regularly
- Teach children what to do when they hear a smoke alarm
- Maintain clear exit paths through hallways and stairwells
- Be sure that all doors are unlocked from the inside and will open if needed
Other Resources
- Keeping Kids Safe from Fire – U.S. Fire Administration
- Home Fires – Ready.gov
- Fire Causes & Risks – National Fire Protection Association
- Home Fire Safety – U.S. Fire Administration
- Sesame Street Fire Safety Program for Preschool Children – U.S. Fire Administration
- Teach Fire Safety. Save Lives. – National Fire Protection Association
- Sparky the Fire Dog – National Fire Protection Association
