KIDS PLAYING WITH FIRE: CAUSE OF MONTE BLAZE

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August 26, 2010 (Lakeside) - Fire investigators have determined that two juveniles playing with fire caused the Monte Fire, which started on August 21st and burned 926 acres. The blaze briefly threatened homes near the fire’s origin and nearly caused the death of two rock-climbers who were rescued by a Sheriff's helicopter in the nick of time.

 

Recently, there has been a rash of fires caused by children playing with matches or lighters in the backcountry, Cal Fire's Roxanne Provaznik said.

 

CAL FIRE and the U.S. Forest Service actively work together with children in the schools in the backcountry conducting various fire prevention education programs on the dangers of playing with fire. The agencies also conduct juvenile firesetter intervention programs in the homes of children who are known to have started fires or have been caught playing with fire by family members. Both agencies work with the Burn Institute on juvenile fire play issues. CAL FIRE and the U.S. Forest Service want encourage parents and teachers to discuss with children the consequences of playing with fire.

 

As a safety reminder, never leave matches and lighters in reach of children. Remind children that matches and lighters are tools and not toys, and that Smokey Bear’s friends never play with fire.

 

For more information contact your local fire station, or if you live in the backcountry contact the nearest CAL FIRE or U.S. Forest Service fire station.
 


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