9 Big Fires Start Small Fires are the number-one cause of death in the home for children under five, and the National Fire Protection Association estimates that more than one third of those children died in fires started by themselves or by other young children. Fire is the number-one cause of death in the home for children ages 5 to 14. Roughly a child under age 15 starts one of every seven fatal structure fires.
Some children engage in fire-play out of curiosity, without realizing the dangers.
Some use fire-play as a bid for attention. Children in crisis may set fires intentionally, as a way of acting out their anger or frustration. With proper intervention, children who set fires can be helped. Playing with fire Children are naturally curious, and fire is fascinating. If a child expresses a natural interest in fire, don't overreact.