Juvenile Firesetters

Children set fires for many reasons. If a child plays with fire that does not mean they are a problem child. When children have repeated and intentional fire starting behaviors fascination becomes a problem. Through education, and in some cases counseling, children and their families can be given the skills to change this dangerous behavior. Studies show that fires started by children playing with matches and lighters are the leading cause of fire deaths for pre-school children and account for more than 1/3 of their fire deaths.

Fire holds a strong
fascination for children

What is a firesetter
natural curiosity or a serious problem?

Firesetting, usually by males, includes a wide range of behavior, from the preschooler's curiosity to malicious teens who set fires.

Fire Interest: Under 7 years old:

Child who asks questions about fire, incorporates fire-related objects such as fire engines, into play, or ask permission to participate in supervised activities such as lighting a grill.

Fireplay: Ages 5-10 years old:

Child unintentionally starts fire, usually while unsupervised, makes serious attempts to extinguish fire or goes for help. Destructive fires, generally started in closets or under beds, surprises and frightens the child.

Nearly half of all children have engaged in fireplay

Crisis Firesetting: Ages 7-18 years old:

Child intentionally seeks fire-starting materials and ignites papers, leaves, personal property or specific locations. Behavior may be related to: stress, death, moving, divorce, anger, need for attention, malicious mischief, or excitement.

Arson

Malicious and willful burning of any structure, forest land, or property. An older youth of age may be charged with arson depending on your state laws.

When to be concerned

With an innate curiosity to learn, children are especially attracted to fire and must be taught to understand its ability to hurt and destroy Firesetting is usually an expression of a child's feelings, a cry for help. Children in homes where domestic violence, drugs and alcohol, or chaotic parenting styles occur are at a greater risk.

Possible warning signs

Playing with matches or lighters
Trying to burn items
Carrying fire starting materials in pockets or having them in their room
Talking about fires
Asking how particular materials will burn

Firesetting is preventable

AGE 5 AND UNDER

Meet your child's curiosity early on. Fireproof your home. Teach children not to touch matches or lighters.

Teach that adults, not children, use fire.
Keep matches and lighters out of children's sight and reach. Praise children for reporting any matches or lighter they may find.
Teach children that if they find matches or lighters, do not touch they, go get an adult.
Never leave children alone near open flame.
Set a good example, children may imitate adults who light cigarettes, candles, pipes, etc.

AGE 5 AND OLDER

If an older child is curious about fire, show the proper and safe way to use matches or lighters.

Explain that fire is a tool
Agree that matches and fire can be used only when supervised and in a safe manner
Discuss what to do if a fire is started. Punishment, and "scare tactics" will not always satisfy a child's curiosity.
Teach to respect fire just as with other tools.
Always teach and practice home fire safety.

How big is the problem?

Whether the results of a curious child playing with matches or the malicious act of a troubled delinquent, juvenile firesetting is a serious problem that requires a special response from the community.

In 1998 juvenile firesetters accounted for a majority of 63% of arson arrests, compared to 52% in 1997 & approximately 48% over the last 15 years.
59% of school arsons are committed by juveniles.
Fire is the number one cause of death in the home for children ages 5-14.
Direct property damage from fire amounted to $325 million.
As few as 10% of the fires started by children are reported because a family member will discover and put the fire out.

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FOR MORE INFORMATION ON JUVENILE FIRESETTERS, CONTACT YOUR LOCAL FIRE DEPARTMENT

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