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State officials focus on youth fire-setting prevention
Arson
Awareness Week
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[May 07, 2012]
SPRINGFIELD
-- As the National Arson Awareness Week begins, the Office of
the Illinois State Fire Marshal urges residents to educate
themselves on the devastating effects of arson and to engage in
simple activities aimed at preventing arson incidents. Every year,
fires caused by delinquent acts affect the lives of thousands of
families and cause more than $1 billion in property loss across the
country.
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 The "Prevent Youth Firesetting" campaign will educate children and
teens on the dangers of mishandling matches, candles and other
flammable objects. The campaign also calls on parents to become more
vigilant of their children's behavior and identify signs that could
potentially lead to unsafe fire-related activities.
"Communities need to take a proactive role in reducing the number
of arson fires which compromise the safety of our families," said
Larry Matkaitis, state fire marshal. "Parents, teachers and
neighbors should come together to identify any possible signs of
arson intentions among minors and take action to prevent intentional
fire-settings."
According to the National Fire Protection Association, more than
300 deaths and another 3,000 injuries are linked to juvenile-set
fires in the United States every year. In 2011, the OSFM Arson
Division investigated 353 arson or incendiary fires statewide;
juveniles were associated with 43 of those incidents.
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 Adults should exercise caution when using matches, lighters,
approved fireworks and other fire-related tools when children and
teens are present. Showing respect for fire and practicing safe
handling of fire-related tools encourage fire safety among children.
Fire devices should be kept in a safe place and out of the reach of
children, and child-proof lighters should be considered as an
alternative. Candles should never be left unattended, and working
smoke alarms should be in place.
For useful tips and more information about
arson prevention,
visit www.state.il.us/osfm or
www.nfpa.org.
[Text from
Office of the State Fire
Marshal file received from
the
Illinois Office of
Communication and Information] |
