Many parents wonder how they can tell if their child is a potential fire risk.  Consider these alarming fire statistics:

• 85% of people who die in a fire started by a child in the United States are children.
• In 2009, 50% of all fires were started by children in West Metro's fire district.
• In West Metro's fire district, children between the ages of 7 years old and 10 years old are starting most of the fires.
• Children over the age of 10 years old can be charged with a crime if they participate in starting a fire.
• Children over the age of 14 may be charged as an adult for starting a fire.
• Parents can be held financially responsible for fire damages to people and property.
• Serious or repetitive fire setting is often indicative of other emotional or peer problems.

Children participating in fire risk assessments and fire safety courses have less than one percent chance of continuing their fire setting behavior.  Every fire started by a child is significant no matter the size or how much it destroys. Please ask for assistance for a child starting fires as early as possible. 

Free Resources Available to Children and Families

• Fire Risk Assessment
• Fire Safety Education Class
• Referrals to The Children's Hospital Juvenile Firesetter Program
• School Fire Safety Programs for Students and School Staff

Any parent, care giver or school staff member concerned with a child's interest in fire or who simply wants to prevent their child from starting a fire can request a free fire risk assessment and fire safety class. The classes are scheduled by request to meet the schedules of each family.  Do you think your child is a fire risk? Here are some of the indicators.