Your children and their friends are beginning their vacation.

The Bella Vista Fire Department would like to recommend the following for a safer summer.

      Keep all matches and lighters out of the reach of children.

      Be sure your children know the escape route out of their home in case of fire. If they are staying overnight at the home of a friend or relative, be sure they know the escape route and safe meeting place from that home also.

      Make sure your children know how to report an emergency (9-1-1).

      If your children must prepare their own meals, make sure they are not required to use the stove. Provide them with a cold meal instead.

      Provide your children with phone numbers where you or a neighbor can be reached if needed.

      Never leave children under the age of 12 years old unattended. Either hire a baby-sitter or leave them with a family relative or friend.