Supporting Infants And Young Children Around FIRES

Before a fire:

Having a safe, stable, and supportive relationship serves as a protective factor for children who are later impacted by a house or wildfire.

Regularly review your fire plan with parents and keep updated contact information. Keep your fire plan updated and plan regular fire drills.

What childcare providers might say or do:

  • (for young children) “Today we’re going to learn about what to do if there is a fire. Fires don’t usually happen. When they do, we need to leave the building to be safe. Later today, you’re going to hear a loud alarm, that will tell us it’s time to practice what we would do when there is a fire. When you hear the alarm, it’s important to use your listening ears. I’ll tell you what you need to do, and I’ll be with you the whole time.” You later go up to Jasmine, who attends occupational therapy and say, “I know you really don’t like loud noises. When you hear the alarm, you might feel scared. I’ll come hold your hand, and you can be the line leader as we all walk out of the classroom.”*

During a fire:

Always check in with yourself first. If you feel overwhelmed or frozen, pause and take a deep breath (or use whatever strategy works for you) so that you can effectively follow your fire emergency plan. Ask for help if you need it

It is important to talk to children even before they understand the words. Talk about what is going on around them. In times of danger, assure them you are there to keep them safe.  

  • Be honest.

  • Use simple language that is appropriate for the children’s ages.

  • Let children know what is happening next.

How you speak to children is as important as the words you use. Children respond to your volume and tone of your voice. They notice your emotions, facial expressions, and body language.

What childcare providers might say or do:

  • (for an infant) “I’m going to pick you up. I know I’m moving quickly. I’m keeping all of you safe.”*

  • (for young children) “I hear a loud fire alarm. That means it’s time to line up. Quickly! Just like we practiced. Remember I’ll be with you the whole time. Jasmine, please be the line leader for us today.”*

Pay attention to what you say to other adults even when you do not think children are listening.

After a fire:

Infants and young children will share their thoughts and feelings through behavior, emotions, play, and, when they are able, language. Watch and listen closely. Expect that some children will show emotion and behavior dysregulation. Be available to provide support.

Remember that it is ok, and even helpful, to talk about what happened. When children hear adults talking about experiences and feelings, they know they can too.

Watch for changes in children’s behavior and emotions. Notice times when children are reminded of the fire. It is not always possible to know, but common reminders include sirens, fire trucks, things that have been burned, seeing people upset, or times when someone is late to pick them up.

What childcare providers might say or do:

  • (for an infant) “Baby, ever since the fire, you want me to hold you. I will hold you if you need me to.” You hold the baby and notice when the baby is ready to play or explore. “I see that you’re looking at the blocks. Would you like to go play?” You walk to the blocks and notice the baby’s body language to see if they’re ready to be put down.*

  • (for young children) You notice Alicia, whose house was recently burned in a fire, fighting over a toy with her friend Lacy. You say, “Friends, it looks like you’re having a hard time sharing. Alicia, I see that’s the special bear that the firefighters gave to you when your house burned down. Lacy that’s Alicia’s special toy. Let’s go find a special toy you can play with.”*

As much as possible, keep regular structure and routines while expecting that children may need extra attention and reassurance.

Communicate with children’s parents/caregivers. Listen to parents’ concerns and share any concerns you have. Work together to find ways to best support the child.

*Note: These are examples. Use your own words and describe your own plan.

Fire Resources for Childcare Providers

Fire Resources to Share with Families:

Fire Resources to Share with Children: Review the resources with parents prior to sharing them with children.

Sample Parent/Guardian Emergency Contact Information form from Tennessee Department of Human Services. Scroll down to: Child Care Agency Emergency Preparedness Template. https://www.tn.gov/humanservices/for-families/child-care-services/child-care-resources-for-providers/child-care-emergency-preparedness.html