Fires started by minors show that children need to be taught fire safety

The recent fires in Espoo started by minors have attracted public attention. An expert from the Finnish National Rescue Association SPEK advises parents on how to talk with children and young people about fires and the risks involved. Parents should also be aware of children’s liability for damages. In schools, materials by SPEK can be used to discuss the matter.

“It can be difficult for a child or young person to understand how easily and quickly a fire can start and spread. Even a single spark or a small flame can cause a fire big enough to be a danger to yourself and others. In the worst case, someone could die or the child could be held liable to pay damages for a very long time,” says Juha Hassila, Communications Specialist at SPEK.

According to statistics by rescue services, in 2022, more than 250 fires were started by children handling fire outdoors, in buildings and trash cans. Children and young people should be taught to understand the dangers of fire and how to handle fire correctly.

“Parents should discuss the topic with children and adolescents calmly and listen to any questions they may have. The child may be apprehensive or worried about the topic. Parents should also ask their child how they are doing and what they would like to talk about,” Hassila encourages.

Young people may be hesitant to call the emergency number

Fire spreads quickly, and you shouldn’t wait before calling the emergency number. Earlier this spring, the superintendent at Turku emergency response centre told the media that young people in particular call the emergency number too rarely or too late.

“It is a good idea to teach children and young people that the emergency number 112 should be called whenever you see that a fire has broken out. Even if the fire was started by the child themselves or their friends. Children should also be taught that the parents won’t be angry at the child for speaking out”, Hassila says.

Children and young people are less accustomed to using a phone to make calls than their parents. Because of this, they may need to be encouraged to call the emergency number.

Minors may be liable for damages even without criminal liability

Minors can be held liable for damages if they start a fire even if they are not yet old enough to be criminally liable. A child may also be liable if they are with others in a group and do not immediately call the emergency number 112 or notify an adult.

Fire safety and safety attitudes can be taught to children in schools with the help of SPEK’s free Palojärki and NouHätä! materials. At home, parents and children can watch the fire safety videos of the Palojärki and NouHätä! campaigns and discuss the safe handling of fire and what to do in an emergency.

Every year, about three in four eighth graders participate in the NouHätä! emergency skills campaign. The campaign teaches fire safety and what to do in an emergency.