Firesetting is a dangerous behavior. It places the child and others at great risk. Parents and others who care for children need to understand the complexity of firesetting, ad how they can access help.

Through the cooperative efforts of the Fire Departments of Ada and Canyon Counties, the Caldwell Fire Department's Juvenile Firesetter Intervention Program has been established to assist families struggling with firesetting behaviors.

Fire in the hands of a child is as dangerous as dynamite!

Any time a child plays with fire, it could be deadly.

• According to the United States Fire Administration, 25 to 40 percent of all fires are set by juveniles.

• In Idaho, juveniles have set 633 fires in the last two years.

• By the 8th grade, 38 percent of all children have played with matches or lighters.

• More than 300 people die each year in the United States due to fires started by children.

• Although most juvenile firesetters are young males, this behavior is also becoming more prevalent in females.

• Children are fascinated by fire but don't understand fire's destructive potential. Early fire education which identifies fire as a tool, but not a toy, is one way to stop your children from engaging in future firesetting behavior. Fire is intriguing to youngsters. It is certainly powerful and it is surprisingly accessible, so keep matches and lighters out of the reach of children.

• Less common, but just as dangerous, children start fires as a way to get attention. Approximately one out of three children use the power of fire to express their own anger or frustration, to seek revenge, and/or to call attention to themselves. Children who use fire as a cry for help tend to show little remorse for their behavior and require professional counseling.

Anyone who cares about the safety of a child can call for assistance. Families, friends, neighbors, teachers and you. For more information call the Caldwell Fire Department and ask about:

Remember, it is important to take the early signs of firesetting seriously. Fire Department personnel have been trained to assess firesetting behaviors, provide fire safety education, and to recommend additional assistance if needed.

• Set a good example. If you smoke, be very responsible in your use of matches and lighters. Children learn by watching you.

• Keep matches and lighters out of children's sight and reach. Even toddlers can use lighters and matches to start a fire. Children know where every match and lighter in the house is.

• Teach children the safe and proper ways to use fire. Be sure they understand fire should only be used under the supervision of a responsible adult.

• If you observe firesetting behavior in a child, call the Juvenile Firesetter Intervention Program at Caldwell Fire & Rescue for help.

• Follow through with the recommenced treatment or intervention procedure that is advised. Your cooperation can mean the difference between life and death.

If you live in Canyon County and your local fire department does not have a Juvenile Firesetters Program contact,

This brochure is available from the Caldwell Fire Department.