- Author
- Armstead, T. L. | Williams, D.
- Title
- Illinois Juvenile Firesetters Task Force Report, 1998.
- Coporate
- State Fire Marshall, IL Juvenile Firesetters Task Force, IL
- Report
- Task Force Report, November 1998, 26 p.
- Keywords
- firesetters | children | fire statistics | NFIRS
- Identifiers
- task force overview; overview of the fire problem; juvenile firesetting problem; recent changes to Illinois juvenile laws
- Abstract
- Children and adults are dying every year from child-set fires. Hundreds are seriously burned or injured each year when children who are curious about fires accidentally start fires which ruin lives, property, hopes and dreams. Unfortunately, when young firesetters are not identified or properly counseled, these firesetting acts become larger and more numerous. Young arsonists have a tremendous impact on our economy, our lives, public health and safety. Fortunately, the state of Illinois and various public and private sector groups are working together to intervene and change the dangerous behaviors of young firesetters. This report is an overview of the fire problem in the state, as well as the nation. According to the National Fire Protection Association, children playing with fire is the fourth leading cause of fires that kill (370 deaths last year). The second leading cause of death is arson with 610 deaths in the U.S. in 1997. The National Fire Incident Reporting System finds that arson fires in Illinois continue to average about 5,000 per year. An even greater number is found to be suspicious in nature. This report presents insightful information about the classifications of young firesetters, including four categories: low risk, moderate risk, high risk and severely disturbed. Included are individual and family profiles, and typical firesetting behaviors. These indicators should alarm many parents, school officials, social service workers and others who recognize some of these traits or past histories of firesetting behavior. Today, there is a statewide network which offers assistance through the Illinois Youthful Firesetters Intervention Association Hotline (800-446-1589). Also, an excellent program is available through St. Elizabeth Hospital in Granite City, Illinois, which is believed to be the only one of its kind in Illinois.