April 23, 2008 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE (SH2008-34) FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION R. Steve Huffman Public Information Officer (251) 208-2857/Fax: (251) 208-2861 E-Mail: huffman@cityofmobile.org CHILD PLAYING WITH MATCHES CAUSES FIRE A 4-year-old-child playing with matches caused a fire Wednesday, April 23 in a two-story, wood frame residence located at 7745 Windtree Road.. The fire was reported by the child’s mother at approximately 11:27 a.m. who told fire dispatchers that she thought her son may have started a fire in the house but could not find any sign of fire, just smoke. Firefighters arrived shortly after at approximately 11:30 a.m. The fire originated in the den on or near the television stand where it was contained but causing heavy smoke damage throughout the structure. The child told fire investigators that he found the matches near the fireplace in the den area. The estimated damage to property and contents is $60 thousand. No injuries were reported. Engines 19, 22, 29, truck 24, rescue 6 and District Chief Alex Trenier responded to the call. Children playing with fire cause hundreds of deaths and thousands of injuries each year. Preschoolers are most likely to start these fires, typically by playing with matches and lighters, and are most likely to die in them. In previous years children playing with fire started an estimated 13,900 structure fires that were reported to U.S. fire departments, causing an estimated 210 civilian deaths, 1,250 civilian injuries and $339 million in direct property damage. • Store matches and lighters out of children's reach and sight, up high, preferably in a locked cabinet. • If your child expresses curiosity about fire or has been playing with fire, calmly but firmly explain that matches and lighters are tools for adults only. • Teach young children to tell an adult if they see matches or lighters, and teach school-age children to bring any matches or lighters to an adult. • If you suspect your child is intentionally setting fires or unduly fascinated with fire, get help. Mobile Fire-Rescue, school, or community counseling agency can put you in touch with trained experts. ###