Each year many families have their home, part of their home or areas of their community destroyed by fires started either accidentally or deliberately by children. Research has shown that if fire-setting is not addressed, it can become more serious and even continue into adulthood.

Cleveland Fire Brigade offer a FREE service which aims to stop involvement with fire by educating children and their parents about the dangers and the consequences of its misuse.

This involves pre-arranged visits or calls with specialist Brigade staff. Who will speak with the young person about fire-setting in the home, outside the home and hoax calling and support them to change behaviour.

Signs of fire-setting behaviour can include:

  • Small, hidden burn marks in carpets, bedding, furniture and clothing;
  • A smell of smoke on a child/young person or their clothing;
  • Hidden matches or lighters in rooms, school bags or amongst other belongings; and
  • Charred paper in bins or sinks

Useful safety tips:

  • Keep only one lighter and preferably keep it on you at all times;
  • Don’t use matches/lighters within view of children, they often copy adults;
  • Regularly check for hidden matches/lighter (mattress, wardrobes, drawers etc.);
  • Secure garden sheds and garages, as children may hide in these places to light fires;
  • Do not place items near fire sources;
  • Ask visitors to secure their lighters/matches;
  • Use fixed guards around open fires and heaters;
  • Ensure you have fitted and working smoke alarms (test weekly); and
  • Close all internal doors to prevent smoke and fire spread.

Contact Details

Depending on your area you can contact a member of the fire education team on one of the numbers below:

Hartlepool area – Call 01429 851258
Middlesbrough area – Call 01642 811650
Redcar and Cleveland area – Call 01642 777651
Stockton-on-Tees area – Call 01642 366180

Alternatively, you can email: fsi@clevelandfire.gov.uk

Remember: If a fire occurs – GET OUT, STAY OUT and DIAL 999 

Data Protection

The Brigade is committed to the protection and safety of children and young people and operates a Child Protection Policy which reflects the principles of both UK legislation and other relevant guidance. The Fire-Education service we offer is confidential. However in line with our Child Protection Policy, on occasions, we may need to share information with appropriate agencies. This is carried out in accordance with the Data Protection Act 1998.

All of our education staff are Criminal Records Bureau checked.