Juvenile Fire Setters Program

Coeur d'Alene Fire Department

The Coeur d Alene Fire Department offers a free, confidential education
program for children who show curiosity about fire or have started a fire. 
You can reach one of our Fire Educators by calling 208-769-2340.

Facts about juvenile fire setters:

Juveniles set over 50% of all fires

300 children each year die in youth related fires

Two of every fire death of pre-school children in home fires occurs between 8:00 a.m. and 4:00 p.m.

Death by fire is the leading cause of accidental death of children in the home

Children who start fires:

            There are two types identified by child experts:

                        Curiosity fire setters:

Usually aged 2-7

Are fascinated by fire, what it does, how it feels, how it burns

Don’t understand a fires destructive potential

                        Problem fire setters:

Start fires due to emotional or mental disturbances ranging from mild to severe
Triggers to fire setting behavior:  A crisis in the child’s life such as moving to a new area, divorce or death, friendship or school issues.

Risk levels include:

                        Type 1 – Little Risk

Mostly boys, aged 3-7

Usually alone (in a closet, under a bed)

                        Type 2 – Definite Risk

Mostly boys, aged 7-12

Could be alone

Sudden change in life (move, death, divorce, school issues, etc)

                        Type 3 – Extreme Risk

Almost always boys

Usually aged 10-14 years old

History of school or social problems

Almost always alone

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If your child has shown an interest or curiosity about fire, they need education about fire safety.  It is estimated that up to 80% of children who start a fire, even accidently, will use fire again if they do not receive education from a fire educator.

The Coeur d Alene Fire Department offers a free, confidential education program for children who show curiosity about fire or have started a fire.  You can reach one of our Fire Educators by calling 208-769-2340.