Fire Lighting Risk Assessment

Typical hazards & measures

• Lighting method misuse — Demonstrate correct striker use: kneel, three‑point stance, strike away from body. Only one child lights cotton wool at a time with adult approval. Emphasise observation before participation.
• Unsafe tool handling near fire — Store tools and fuel in separate, clearly designated areas away from the fire. Children only carry tools under close supervision and outside the fire zone. Before starting, confirm all participants understand tool and fire domains. Teach and practise the sequence for approaching the fire: observe, pass fuel/tools safely, then step back.
• Missing child / child wandering off — Carry out headcounts before, during, and after fire activity. Staff are stationed around the site perimeter to maintain oversight. Use clear physical boundaries and establish a “safe return” signal. Any child leaving or re-entering must be escorted by an adult.
• Fire spreading — Keep each group’s fire small and contained, positioned at least 5 m from vegetation and buildings, and 3–5 m from other groups’ fires. Store fuel piles a minimum of 2 m from all fires and clearly separate between groups. Adults supervise at all times, ensuring children only add fuel when directed. Have water and fire blankets available at every fire site. Fully extinguish all fires at the end of the session.
• Misbehaviour — Set fire circle rules and role-play them. Remove any child breaking safety behaviour immediately. Use positive reinforcement. Debrief actions to reinforce learning.