Child Safety Week 2025

During Child Safety Week, Humberside Fire and Rescue Service reminds parents/guardians to take steps to protect their children from burns and fires. With a focus on home safety, here are key tips to keep in mind: 

– Keep items that can cause fires, such as candles, matches and lighters out of children’s reach. Also, make sure hot items like kettles, irons and hair straighteners are inaccessible. 

– Prevent children from playing near fires or heaters to avoid burns. 

– Use the back hobs on the stove and make sure saucepan handles are not sticking out to prevent them from being knocked off. 

– Never leave children unattended in the kitchen. 

– Install childproof guards in front of open fires or heaters; the best ones can be fixed to the wall. 

– Keep in mind that certain clothing materials, particularly synthetic fabrics, can ignite quickly when in contact with flames. 

– In case of clothing catching fire, remember to ‘stop, drop, and roll.’ Avoid running around, as it can worsen the flames. Lie down and roll around to smother the flames with a heavy material like a coat or blanket. 

– Before adding hot water to a bath or sink, run cold water first and test the temperature. Only put a baby or child into the water once it’s been tested. 

– Store chemicals and cleaners out of reach of children. 

For burn first aid, remember ‘cool, call, and cover!’ 

– Cool the burn with running cold tap water for 20 minutes and remove all clothing and jewellery (unless it is melted or firmly stuck to the wound). 

– Call for help – dial 999 in an emergency or 111 or contact your local GP for non-emergency advice. 

– Cover the burn with cling film or a sterile, non-fluffy dressing or cloth, ensuring the patient stays warm. 

For more safety advice, visit Humberside Fire and Rescue Service website: https://humbersidefire.gov.uk/your-safety/safety-in-the-home-advice