Is playing with fire normal for children?
Although it is common for children to be curious about fire; misuse of fire should
not be tolerated. Children see their parents or others smoke and handle matches
and lighters. Remember, young children learn by watching and modeling behavior. Try to
teach children that playing with matches and lighters as a toy is wrong, but emphasize
their use as a tool that assists us in cooking and keeping our house warm and comfortable.
These stimulating and satisfying experiences reinforce the proper use of fire. It
is important that parents teach children that matches and lighters are tools, not
toys.
Is firesetting a phase?
No, firesetting is not a normal phase for a child. If the firesetting behavior is
not dealt with immediately, the behavior can escalate into criminal behavior. fifty
percent of children misusing fire if not intervened with education, will continue
and escalate.
If the parents or guardians of the child seek help for the child, will their
neighbors and friends find out?
All intervention and counseling is kept confidential. Parents of a
youth misusing fire
often hesitate to seek help for their child. The ramifications of a child accused
of setting fires can be devastating. Parents fear alienation from their family,
friends, and the community. In addition, repeated misuse of fire is a cry for help. Even though you may fear these situations, the information gathered can help direct
the focus of our assistance. Remember, all information remains confidential.
If the child is punished, will he stop the firesetting behavior?
Punishment may force the child to hide while playing with fire. It is important
to educate the child on the hazards of misusing fire rather than punish them.
If we contact the fire department what help will we receive?
- Consultation with a youth intervention specialist interventionist regarding:
- Aspects of misuse of fire
- Specific or complex case consultation
- Screening tool used for assessment:
- Fire-related behaviors
- Evaluation of individual and family factors underlying fire-related behaviors
- Early detection of warning signs of firesetting risks
- Intervention:
- Age appropriate fire safety education
- Fire safety prevention information provided to parents
- Mental health treatment for the child and family when needed
For questions or comments, please call
(503) 259-1408
or email
Youth Fire Intervention Program