Youth Firesetting Awareness and Prevention

Understanding Youth Firesetting

Youth firesetting is a serious concern that can lead to devastating consequences for youth, their families, and communities. It is crucial for parents and the community to recognize the signs of firesetting behavior in children and adolescents and to take appropriate action.

Signs of Youth Firesetting Behavior

1. Unexplained fires or attempts to start fires (ex: trash can)
2. Evidence of burnt objects or scorch marks
3. Playing with matches, lighters, or other ignition sources
4. Fascination with fire, including watching fires or talking about fire excessively
5. Burning leaves
6. Burn holes in clothing
7. Burning of other items
8. Possession or use of fireworks
9. Unwarranted fire alarm activations

Accompanying Behavior

1. Behavioral changes such as increased secrecy or withdrawal
2. Truancy or decline in school performance

If you observe any of these behaviors, it is essential to seek help immediately. Early intervention can prevent potential tragedies and provide the necessary support to children and their families.

For more information and resources, please visit the Northbay Youth Firesetter Intervention Coalition (NYFIC) website: NYFIC.

If you know of a youth that has been involved in a fire-setting incident or if you are concerned about the possibility of a fire-setting incident occurring with a youth, please reach out to the Petaluma Fire Prevention Bureau: (707) 778-4389 | [email protected]. Referrals can come from family members, counselors, school resource officers, first responders or other allied agencies.

Take Action

1. Discuss fire safety with your children
2. Keep ignition sources out of reach
3. Monitor your child’s behavior for any signs of firesetting
4. Reach out to professionals for guidance and intervention

Together, we can protect our community and ensure the safety of our children. For further assistance, please contact the Petaluma Fire Prevention Bureau: (707) 778-4389 | [email protected]