Polk Township Vol. Fire Dept.

What's Hot and What's Not



Children are surrounded by things that can burn them, and they must learn to identify and avoid everyday burn hazards. It is important that children know that matches, cigarette lighters, and hot liquids can burn them. Hot things include things that may not be hot right now, but could get hot; irons, stoves, heaters, etc. A grown-up should closely supervise children when they are bathing or when there is a hot liquid or beverage around.

Matches and lighters are tools for grown-ups only; they are not toys. Matches and lighters can be used by grown-ups to light birthday candles, a fireplace, or grill but they are very dangerous for children. Matches and lighters should always be kept up high out of the reach of children, preferably in a locked cabinet. If a child finds matches or lighters, he or she should tell a grown-up.

Print out this page. Have the child put a red "X" through the things that get hot, and a blue "X" through the things that do not.

Teach your child what's hot.
Have Fun with Fire Safety.


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Sources: NFPA Sparky's Handbook

John D. Einhorn