State Fire Marshal: Children Often Get Confused about “Stop, Drop, and Roll”

NASHVILLE – With a new school year around the corner, the State Fire Marshal’s Office (SFMO) is bringing attention to the first fire safety lesson many of us are taught: “Stop, drop, and roll.” While people of all ages are familiar with the classic phrase, it is common for children to mistakenly believe that they should use stop, drop, and roll as a reaction to all fire situations. The SFMO encourages parents, caregivers, and teachers to ensure kids know both how and when to stop, drop, and roll.

“It’s crucial to stress, especially to children, that stop, drop, and roll is what you do when your clothing or body is on fire,” said State Fire Marshal and Commerce & Insurance Commissioner Julie Mix McPeak. “If a fire occurs in a home or a building, however, they need to know that getting out fast and staying out is the proper response.”

Make sure you and your family are prepared for what to do in case a clothing fire occurs:

• If your clothes or body catch fire, stop, drop, and roll. Stop immediately, drop to the ground, and cover your face with your hands. Roll over and over or back and forth until the fire is out.
• If you use a wheelchair, scooter, or other device and are able to get to the floor, lock the device first to stay in place before getting on the floor to roll until the flames are out. If you cannot stop, drop, and roll, use a blanket or towel to help you or others smother the flames.
• Immediately remove loose clothing or clothing with elastic bands, as well as belts and jewelry.
• Use cool water to treat any resulting burns immediately for 3 to 5 minutes. Cover with a clean, dry cloth.  Do not apply creams, ointments, sprays or other home remedies. Get medical help right away by calling 9-1-1 or the fire department.

To prevent clothes from catching fire:

• Wear short, close-fitting, or tightly rolled sleeves when cooking or grilling.
• Teach children to never play with matches or lighters.
• Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet around fireplaces, candles, grills, and stoves.

For more information on how to make your home fire-safe, print the State Fire Marshal’s home fire safety checklist and escape grid. Tennesseans in need of a smoke alarm can also utilize the SFMO’s online alarm request form.
 

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