Abstract: A safety match box comprises a cover member of a generally box-like configuration open at opposite ends and a slidable tray having a pack of matches fastened thereto which fits within the cover member. The tray comprises an open receptacle having four side walls and a base. One of the side walls which is initially inserted into the cover member is of a particular striker material. The other side wall opposite the striker comprises a segmented wall member which flexes upon the application of force to the adjacent side wall members so that the tray may be moved within the cover member. The side walls also include lug members which engage corresponding lugs in the cover member to prevent removal of the tray. The striker is exposed only upon full closure of the box for safety purposes and it is extremely difficult to a young child to open the match box. In a second embodiment, the base of the cover includes a plurality of holes at the forward end and a cut off portion at the other end for pushing the box open.