OLYMPIA, WA – The Washington State Fire Marshal’s Office is sharing fire safety reminders directed at kindergarten-aged children and their families, aiming to reduce the risk of tragedy through early education and preparation.
Young children are especially at risk during house fires. Fires and burns continue to be one of the leading causes of unintentional death in this age group. In 2024, four Washington children under 10 years old lost their lives due to fire.
To help prevent these incidents, the Fire Marshal’s Office recommends families follow these fire safety guidelines:
- Identify two ways out of every room.
- Make sure windows can open easily and are not blocked.
- Teach children how to check a door for heat before opening it and how to find another way out if needed.
- Instruct children to leave the house right away if the smoke alarm sounds and to stay outside until an adult tells them it’s safe.
- Warn children to stay away from anything hot.
- Advise children never to touch matches or lighters and to tell an adult if they see them.
- Let children know firefighters are there to help, even though their protective gear may look scary.
- Practice home fire drills at least twice a year to reinforce these habits.
For further details, contact the State Fire Marshal’s Office at (360) 596-3904.