Firesetting behavior is a growing problem in the United States, with over 1 million fires set each year by children.
 | Did You Know
Children are responsible for 54% of all arson fires nationwide. |
Why Children Set Fires
Of the children who set fires, 60% are considered "curious" with a natural desire to experiment. Some children may act out of boredom, looking for something to do.
Some of these children may have other problems such as Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder, which would contribute to impulsive behavior.
The remaining 40% of children are often older, usually males who have other problems of a psychological nature, sometimes as a result of family or school and social difficulties. Some of these children or adolescents have intense feelings of powerlessness and anger that can lead to firesetting.
Sacramento Valley Juvenile Firesetter Program
This program provides a coordinated effort in helping juvenile firesetters and their families receive the help they need through education, assessment and psychological services. This program requires an interview with the child and his/her family, completion of a fire safety academy, and possibly counseling services.
The Sacramento Valley Juvenile Firesetter Program is comprised of a consortium of fire, burn, probation, and health-care personnel. Together these agencies provide assessment interviews to determine the problem level and, where necessary, referral to the Fire Safety Academy for education or to counseling services for psychological assessment and referral for treatment with a mental health professional through a local referral process.
Proactive Outreach
The Juvenile Firesetter Poster is an example of the coalitions proactive desire to reach out to the members of the Sacramento Valley. This poster has been placed in school offices within the greater Sacramento Valley to let parents know that we are here to assist them.
Questions?
The Rocklin Fire Department no longer participates in the Sacramento Valley Juvenile Firesetter Program due to budget cuts. To enroll in the program or for more information go to www.firesetter.com.
