Children younger than age seven are more vulnerable to smoke and flames in a fire, less likely to wake up if a smoke alarm sounds while they are sleeping and have a hard time escaping a burning home by themselves, according to the Snohomish County fire Prevention Association.
Since children under age 5 typically lack the motor skills and mental capabilities needed to quickly escape a burning building, they are able to follow an escape plan if they have practiced it often.
The Marysville-based association cautions that when some children see smoke or fire, they may try to hide in a closet or under a bed. So, as soon as your children are old enough to understand, make sure they know the sound of the smoke alarm and what to do when they hear it.
Voice recordable smoke alarms may be sued to supplement the traditional smoke alarms in homes with young ones. Children often will wake to the sound of your voice giving them commands, rather than a beeping smoke alarm.
Teach your children:
Ÿ Not to hide from firefighters.
Ÿ How to crawl low under smoke to reduce smoke inhalation
Ÿ How to touch closed doors to check for heat before opening
Ÿ Two ways out of every room
Ÿ Where your family meeting place outside your home is
For more information visit www.snocountyfireprevention.com.
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