Juvenile Firesetter Intervention

Fires kill children.

Fires are the number one cause of death at home for children under the age of six. The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) estimates that two of every five of these children killed in home fires die in fires started by themselves or other young children. More than one of every eight fatal structure fires is started by a child under the age of 15.

These are chilling statistics that can not be ignored.

If you know a child that is curious about fire or has a history of the misuse of fire, contact Crooked River Ranch Fire & Rescue at 541-923-6776 or email us at admin@crrfire.com to schedule a Juvenile Firesetter Intervention Screening. The JFS Screening is used to assess a juvenile's risk of continued fire setting behavior and to determine the course of action to correct the child's behavior.

Why do children set fires?

The principal reason most children misuse fire is out of curiosity. Troubled children may act out their anger or frustration by setting fires. Abused children may make a cry for help or for attention. Older children may set fires due to peer pressure, or as an act of vandalism.

Curiosity/Experimental

• Boys and girls ages 2 to 10 (sometimes younger)
• Lack understanding of the destructive potential of fire
• Ready access to lighters, matches, or open flame
• Often lack adult supervision

Troubled Firesetters

• Mostly boys of all ages
• Have a history of setting two or more fires
• Use fire to express anger, sadness, frustration, or powerless feelings related to stress or major changes in their life
• May not fully understand the consequences of an uncontrolled fire
• Will continue to set fires until needs are identified and met
• Also known as "crisis" or "cry for help" firesetters

Delinquent/Criminal

• Usually teens with a history of firesetting, truancy, antisocial behavior, or drug/alcohol abuse
• Fires are set with intent to destroy, or as acts of vandalism and malicious mischief
• Targets are typically schools, open fields, dumpsters, or abandoned buildings
• May involve restitution and criminal punishment if determined to be arson

PARENTS . . .Teach Your Child About Fire

Fire is a tool we use to heat our homes or cook our food. It is not a toy. Fire is dangerous -- it can kill. All fires -- even small ones - can spread quickly. Even adults must follow special safety rules for fire.

When to seek help

If your child demonstrates a chronic or exaggerated interest in fire, or misuses matches or lighters and won't stop, Juvenile Firesetter Intervention may be helpful. Parents who suspect, or find evidence, that their child is setting even small fires should be direct about the fact that fires can kill. They should also address any crisis that may be behind the behavior, listen carefully when the child describes his or her feelings, and get professional help.

Where to find help?

Crooked River Ranch Fire & Rescue.

Contact us now!