The Fort Wayne Fire Department (FWFD) and the Allen County Juvenile Firesetters Task Force are participating in Arson Awareness Week, May 4-10, 2008.  The theme this year is "Toylike Lighters: Playing with Fire".  The goal for FWFD and the Juvenile Firesetters Task Force is to make everyone aware that novelty and toylike lighters are a danger because children might mistake them for a toy and there could be tragic consequences.

            The Juvenile Firesetters Task Force is providing information to help adults recognize the role they play in educating children about lighters and matches and the safety steps that should be taken.  The following are safety tips can really make a difference:

• Store all lighters and matches out of children's reach and sight, preferably in a locked cabinet 
• Only use lighters designed with child-resistant features and remember that child-resistant does not mean that it is child-proof 
• Do not leave lighters or matches in any room or location where children may go without supervision, especially bedrooms where there are many flammable items that could quickly spread a fire such as a bedspread, curtains, clothing, etc. 
• Children imitate adults so try to not use a lighter or matches around children and if you have to do so, firmly explain that matches and lighters are tools to be used by adults only 
• Do not use lighters as a source of amusement for a child 
• Teach all children to tell an adult if they see lighters or matches and teach school-age children that they should bring any lighters or matches to an adult

If a child is intentionally setting fires or unduly fascinated with fire, please get help.  Contact 427-1278 to talk with a Fire Safety Educator.