Arson Awareness Week Focus on Fire Safety: Prevent Youth Firesetting

May 6-12 is Arson Awareness Week.

This year’s theme is Prevent Youth Firesetting. During the month of May, the United States Fire Administration (USFA) will focus public attention on the importance of a collaborative effort with fire and emergency service departments, law enforcement, mental health, social services, schools, and juvenile justice to help reduce the occurrence of juveniles engaged with fire.

Did You Know?

• Fires started by children playing accounted for an average of 56,300 fires with associated losses of 110 civilian deaths, 880 civilian injuries, and $286 million in direct property damage per year between 2005 and 2009.

• Younger children are more likely to set fires in homes, while older children and teenagers are more likely to set fires outside.

• Lighters were the heat source in half (50 percent) of child-playing fires in homes. Prevention Tips

• Never leave matches or lighters within reach of children. Keep matches and lighters out of reach in high, locked cabinets.

• Praise your child for practicing responsible behavior and showing respect for fire.

• Set a good example; use matches, lighters, and fire carefully, as children will imitate positive behavior.

Additional information may be obtained by viewing the following web sites:

http://www.usfa.fema.gov/fireservice/subjects/arson/aaw12/understanding.shtm

http://www.usfa.fema.gov/fireservice/subjects/arson/aaw12/facts.shtm

http://www.usfa.fema.gov/fireservice/subjects/arson/aaw12/families.shtm