Juvenile Fire-Setting Behavior: Warning Signs

The Ventura County Sheriff’s Office would like to remind the Fillmore community how fire safety is a critical issue which affects our entire community. Each year, hundreds of lives and millions of dollars in property are lost due to fires, many of which are preventable. Alarmingly, some of these fires are started by juveniles, either accidentally or intentionally. As parents and guardians, it is essential to recognize the signs and understand how to prevent such incidents.

“Media Release - Fillmore Arson Arrests” from Ventura County Sheriff's Office : Nixle

Understanding the Risks
Fire-Setting behavior in children can stem from curiosity, peer pressure, or deeper behavioral issues. According to the U.S. Fire Administration, children are responsible for approximately 40% of all fires set intentionally. These incidents can lead to severe injuries, fatalities, and destruction of homes and property.

Key Warning Signs
Parents should be aware of the following warning signs that may indicate fire-setting tendencies in their child:

• An unusual fascination with fire, matches, or lighters.
• Unexplained burn marks on clothing, furniture, or walls.
• A pattern of playing with fire or discussing fire in a positive or obsessive manner.
• Behavioral changes such as isolation, aggression, or increased anxiety.

Juvenile Arson - An Effective Response | Office of Justice Programs (ojp.gov)

Juvenile fire-setting is not necessarily arson. Community-based approaches are needed to deal with child fire-setters

• 40 to 70 percent of all fires are set by children
• Average age of child fire-setters ranges from 5 to 9 years or 5 to 12 years, depending upon the community. 
• Even a very young child can set devastating fires, although such a child is not deliberately malicious.
• The typical child fire-setter 
  • male
  • From a one-parent home and 
  • Probably has experienced a family crisis. 
  • Often, he has not had his psychological needs met at some critical developmental stage. 
  • Older child fire-setters cannot maintain peer relationships or relationships with other children

By working together, we can prevent tragedies and ensure the safety of our children and community. Let’s stay vigilant and proactive in educating our youth about fire safety.

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