Wednesday’s fatal fire is a tragic reminder of what typically happens when children and fire mix. National statistics show that each year over 100,000 fires are set by children, resulting in the death of 300 individuals and property damages of over $280 million (www.usfa.fema.gov). In Oregon in 1998 (most recent statistics), children playing with fire was the sixth leading cause of fire, resulting in 401 reported fires (www.sfm.state.or.us). Note: Only 33% of Oregon fire departments report incidents to the Oregon State Fire Marshal.

The issue of juvenile firesetting is not unfamiliar to Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue. The District’s deadliest fire in history, the Oakwood Park Apartment (June 1996), was started by an 11 year-old. Eight people, including five children, died in the incident. In an effort to minimize these tragic yet preventable incidents, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue has a Juvenile Firesetter Program and is an active member of the Washington County Juvenile Firesetter Intervention Network. This multi-agency group meets monthly and includes representatives from Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue and other area fire departments, Washington County mental health agencies, local schools, juvenile justice system, and police departments. The District’s firesetter program offers screening, educational intervention, or a referral for treatment to parents, caregivers and children who have been involved with fire activities. Last year, the District had 140 incidents involving children playing with fire and explosives, and District representatives met with 126 children. On average, the District sees between 8 and 20 children a month.

To avoid the incidence of juvenile firesetting and safeguard your family, Tualatin Valley Fire & Rescue recommends the following tips:

1. Keep all matches and lighters out of reach of young children.
2. Teach children that fire is dangerous and should be used only by adults
3. Teach children to tell an adult if they find matches or lighters
4. Report juveniles playing with matches or lighters by calling 911
5. Install and maintain working smoke alarms in your home, and develop and practice a home fire escape plan.