Reporting School Fires

by

Karen S. Jones
Deputy State Fire Marshal
Washington State Fire Marshal's Office

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Nationally, fires caused over 84 million dollars damage to educational structures in 1998. Arson is the leading cause of fires in educational buildings. Arson should not be considered a small crime. In Washington State arson combined with child set fires was the leading cause of fire deaths for 1999. Arson robs communities of valuable assets in lives and property.

Arson is a seriously underreported crime, and schools are no exception. Only a small percentage of fire incidents in schools are reported to local fire departments. Every school fire should be reported to the fire department so that a fire investigation can be conducted. Early identification of young fire setters can lead to successful community based intervention strategies. This intervention may include: a screening interview to determine appropriate intervention, addressing fire curiosity through education, making referrals to mental health providers, partnering with law enforcement, and/or requiring the youth to participate in restitution programs.

Every fire, regardless of size or location, is significant and should be reported. Arson is a violent crime that hurts everyone. Proper reporting and intervention can increase the safety of students, staff and school property.

References: National Fire Protection Association, Sept/Oct NFPA Journal, pg 91, U.S. Fire Administration, Fire in the United States: 1985-1994, pg 129, Washington State Fire Marshal 1999 Fire Death Report, Report School Fires by Washington County Juvenile Firesetter Intervention Network

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