SABATTUS – The Sabattus Fire Department is creating an educational fire safety program designed to prevent fire-related injuries and fatalities.

The program will be presented in the school system during Fire Prevention Week this year.

Produced by Gateway Safety Net Publication, Fire Safety for Kids is a 78-page book that features information on how to avoid fire, plan an escape route from the home and what to do in case of fire. It also offers health and first aid information, along with safety tips for parents, teachers and baby sitters.

The books, which have been provided due to the support of local businesses and organizations, also serve as a family resource. The books are a major component of Community Safety Net, an initiative that seek to protect young people and save lives through increased community involvement, support and education.

House fires are the third leading cause of death among children – mostly as the result of smoke inhalation. Kids start 30 percent of these fires.