Health Tip: Talk to Kids About Fire Safety

(HealthDay News) -- It's important for children to understand that they should never play with matches, and what to do if they smell smoke or see fire.

The University of Michigan Health System suggests:

• Teach children not to play with matches, lighters or candles. Explain that fire is hot, moves quickly and is very dangerous.
• Practice a fire escape plan. Rehearse crawling low on the floor below smoke, and stopping, dropping and rolling if clothing has caught fire. Make sure children know to get out of the home and not to come back in for any reason.
• Show children what a fully-geared firefighter looks like, so the kids are not afraid.
• Warn children about safety near stoves, fireplaces, electrical cords and sockets, and radiators.