Parents of preschool fire setters: perceptions of the child-play fire hazard

Abstract

The present study sought to learn about risk perceptions held by parents of preschool fire-setters. A 41-item survey was distributed to 60 parents whose children, aged 6 years and younger, had previously set fires and who were involved in intervention programmes throughout the US. Most parents did not think their children would play with matches/lighters, or knew how to use these items, although some had witnessed their children playing with matches/lighters previously. Most parents reported having taken precautions to keep matches/lighters out of reach and also educating their children about fire. Regardless, children not only set fires, but in 40% of cases climbed to access the match/lighter. Parents' perceptions of their children's proclivity for fire play were not consistent with their actual fire-play behaviour. Parents underestimated the likelihood that their children would play with matches/lighters. Although most reportedly undertook preventative measures aimed at thwarting fire play, these strategies were ineffective. Traditionally relied upon precautionary techniques, such as storing lighters out of reach and discussing the dangers of fire, were not sufficient to stem interest and resultant fire play.

Keywords:

• Preschoolers
• Fire play
• Fire setting
• Parental perceptions
• Prevention

Acknowledgements

The authors wish to acknowledge the following individuals for their dedication to the data collection process: Marnie Grohndahl – Duluth, Minnesota Fire Department; Lisa Hayes – Houston, Texas Fire Department; Barb Spurlin – Indianapolis, Indiana Fire Department; Lisa Garvich – Firestoppers of King County, Washington; Janet Boberg – Phoenix, Arizona Fire Department; Joe Meinecke – Firestoppers of Pierce County, Washington; Joe Troncoso – Portland, Oregon Fire & Rescue; and Fred Rion – Rochester County, New York Fire Department, Fire Marshal, Charles Raiken, Broward Sheriff's Office, Broward County, Florida.