Youth Firesetting Prevention and Intervention

"From 2011-2020, there were 956 juvenile and youth-set fires reported in Massachusetts. About half started with matches and lighters. In 2020 alone, juveniles misusing fire caused 86 reported fire incidents, one civilian injury, four fire service injuries and an estimated dollar loss of $1.9 million. The average dollar loss per fire was $22,140. These fires increased by 25% from 2019.

To prevent fires, adults can:

-Make sure homes have working smoke alarms

-Develop and practice a home escape plan

-Keep matches and lighters out of sight and out of reach of young children

-Explain that matches and lighters are tools for grown-ups.

-Teach children to tell you when they see matches and lighters laying out in the open. When they do, praise them and move the matches and lighters to a safe location." (Department of Fire Services, 2024)

Questions concerning program offerings can be directed to the Public Fire Education Coordinator: 508-210-5658