Burn Prevention: What Every Teen Should Know About Risky Behavior and Its Consequences

As a teenager, you’re stepping into independence, but some choices—especially those involving fire—can lead to life-altering consequences. Burns are painful and leave lasting scars, while fire-related actions can injure others, destroy property, and result in severe legal trouble. Teens often feel invincible, but fire is unforgiving, and its consequences are real.

Here’s what you need to know about common dangerous fire-related actions:

Fireworks: Fun, But Dangerous

Fireworks may seem like harmless fun, but they are a major cause of burns and wildfires. Even sparklers reach temperatures of 1,200°F—enough to cause third-degree burns. In addition to being dangerous, setting off fireworks is illegal in many areas, even if no damage is done. It’s especially important to know that buying fireworks online can also be illegal, particularly if you’re under 18. Remember, what's legal can vary by location—while purchasing might be allowed in Los Angeles County, it’s prohibited in Los Angeles City.

• Burns: Fireworks can cause severe, lasting injuries.

• Property Damage: A single firework can start a fire that destroys homes or forests.

  
  

Bottom Line: What seems like a small risk can lead to life-altering consequences for you and others.

Dangerous Fire-Setting Behaviors: Breaking In or Setting Fires for Thrills

Whether it’s out of boredom, curiosity, or to seek thrills, setting fires—intentionally or while trespassing—is dangerous and illegal. Teens may break into abandoned buildings or enter a park after hours for excitement, but adding fire to the mix makes the situation even more perilous.

• Injuries or Death: Fires can spread rapidly, causing burns or trapping you inside.

• Damage and Legal Trouble: Lighting fires in or near buildings can destroy property. Arson is a serious crime, and you will face felony charges and be held responsible for damages.

• Worse Consequences: If your fire injures or kills someone, you could face criminal charges like manslaughter or homicide.

  
  

Bottom Line: Whether you’re starting a fire out of curiosity or while trespassing, the legal and physical consequences are severe. You’re not invincible, and the risks can follow you for life.

Campfires and Wildfires: Nature Doesn’t Care

Starting a campfire in a dry or windy area may seem harmless, but wildfires spread fast. A small spark can destroy homes, wildlife, and entire communities.

• Injury or Death: You, your friends, or even firefighters could be injured or killed if a wildfire spreads.

• Responsibility: If you start a wildfire, you will face criminal charges and pay for the damages.

  
  

Bottom Line: No matter the intent, wildfires lead to severe legal and financial consequences.

In Conclusion: Think Before You Act

No matter how invincible you feel, playing with fire isn’t worth the risk. Burns, property damage, and legal trouble can ruin lives. The thrill of the moment pales in comparison to the long-term pain and consequences.

Not only could you hurt yourself or others, but you could also end up with a criminal record that affects your future opportunities. Before you light that firework, start that campfire in a restricted area, or experiment with fire, think about the lasting consequences.

Get Help and Stay Safe

If you or someone you know is engaging in risky fire-setting behavior, it’s important to get help. CBF offers support and resources to keep you safe and make better choices. Visit childburn.org or email burnprevention@childburn.org for help.

Stay safe, be smart, and protect yourself and others from unnecessary risks!