Best practices book - Flipbook - Page 338
PROTECT
LIVES.
PROPERTY.
WHAT IS THE YOUTH FIRESETTER
INTERVENTION PROGRAM?
The Youth Firesetter Intervention Program is designed to provide education
and intervention for children who have misused fire. The goal is to prevent
fires, injuries, deaths and destruction of property. The program was started
through the State Fire Marshals Office and has expanded throughout the state,
including unincorporated Harris County.
WHY KIDS PLAY WITH FIRE
Fire interest in children is almost universal
Children of all ages can be involved
Curiosity about fire is natural, setting fires
is not
Truth is young children do not understand
the consequences; and
Older children underestimate their ability
to control fire
ABOUT THE PROGRAM
Children accepted from 2-18 years of age
No Cost
One-on-One Classes
Confidential
Documentation provided
One-day class (approx. 2-3 hours long)
At least one parent must participate
DEBBIE TAYLOR:
(713) 274 - 1735
Debbie.Taylor@fmo.hctx.net
BEST PRACTICES | 329
MYTHS AND FACTS
A child can control a small fire.
FACT: Most fires start small, but can become
uncontrollable quickly
Firesetting is a phase my child will outgrow.
FACT: If a child is not taught fire safety, the firesetting can
get out of control easily. It is dangerous
behavior; you can’t afford to wait to change it.
If you burn a child’s hand, he/she will stop.
FACT: This is considered child abuse and is against the law.
Burns create fear and scars. The motivation behind the
firesetting should be addressed.
If I take my child to the burn unit to see burn
victims, he/she will stop.
FACT: This instills fear and does not teach the child about
fire safety. We need to be sensitive to burn survivors and
not put them on display.
ONLINE REFERRAL FORM
www.hcfmo.net
See tab: How do I?
Select: File a Youth Firesetters Intervention
Program Referral Form
Fill form and submit.
