The Problem

In 1996, children playing with fire was determined to be the cause of over 20,000 residential fires. These fires resulted in 288 deaths and over 2,100 injuries. Dollars lost due to children playing with fire totaled $269.7 million.(USFA)

From 1994-1996, 1,491 multiple-fatality fires were reported in residential structures. Heating, arson, and children playing with fire-setting materials were the three leading causes, accounting for more than half of the multiple-fatality home fires. (USFA)

Fire both fascinates and frightens us.  It is a tool critical to our survival.  When fire is intentionally misused, however, it can devastate.

Any time a child plays with fire, that child and everyone around him/her is at risk.

When a parent, guardian or other caregiver discovers a child involved with fireplay, the reason for the behavior should be evaluated and corrective action taken.

The Program

The "Firestoppper Program" has been professionally designed by the U.S. Fire Administration and the Federal Emergency Management Association. It is a screening program for trained fire service personnel to identify the motivators behind a child's fireplay/firesetting and recommend a course of action.

Firesetting is divided into four level:

1. Fireplay: Interest shown in fire.
   
2. Small fires: No losses or fire department response
   
3. Larger fires: Out of control, losses, fire department called.
   
4. Major fires: Out of control, large losses of property, possible injuries or fatalities
   

No fireplay, regardless of how small, should be dismissed.

There are two general categories into which juvenile firesetters fall:

• Curiosity This is normal expression of interest in their environment and an attempt to learn about it.
  
• Problematic This area is of greater concern as the child may be undergoing delinquency, crisis or pathological problems.
  

The solution to the problem may involve educational intervention and/or referral to certified mental health professionals.

Interest in fire is a normal part of our growth.  This dynamic tool helps us maintain our standard of living.

A child's natural curiosity about our environment can lead to experimentation.

Children need to be educated in the proper use of fire and the consequences of its dangers.

Children can also have stresses in their lives.  Venting of their frustrations can lead to behavioral or destructive actions.  When this involves fire, intervention becomes necessary.

Whatever the motivation for the fireplay, the cause must be evaluated and the proper corrective course of action followed

The Process

If you believe your child has an abnormal interest in fire and would like to enroll him/her in the FIRESTOPPER PROGRAM, contact the business office to schedule an appointment. (636)970-9700

The program usually involves two sessions, held at the fire station.

The first session is the screening process. It is during this session that information is gathered through a series of interview questions. It normally takes about an hour and can be scheduled at your convnience.

Following the screening session, the responses are evaluated and an informational letter is sent describing the results and the course of action recommended.

The second session, if indicated, is when the educational portion takes place. This session is recommended for the entire family because fire safety is everyone's concern. The firesetter will usually have some fire safety homework to accomplish as well as some form of restitution for any damages from the fireplay.

For the problematic cases, a referral to a mental health professional is recommended. All program files are confidential.