Juvenile Firesetters Intervention Program

The primary purpose of the Longview Juvenile Firesetters Intervention Program is to reduce the incidence of fire play and fire setting through early identification, evaluation, education and treatment.  Juvenile fire play iis extremely dangerous and should not be dismissed as a phase or simple curiousity.  Statistics show that nearly 50 percent or more of all fires are started by children who play with matches, lighters, and other ignition sources.  Juvenile firesetting causes an estimated $900 million dollars in property damages annually. Sadly, the majority of the victims of child-set fires are the children themselves. The best way to understand a child's firesetting behavior is to look at its context and motivation. While curiosity about fire is common, some children light fires for other reasons. Very often, the behavior is a symptom of larger school, family or emotional problems.  If you have a child who might be at risk, please contact our office immediately. All information is confidential.

FOR MORE INFORMATION CONTACT:

Monica Hanks, Fire Prevention Technician
(903) 237-1119 - Fax (903) 234-8919
mhanks@ci.longview.tx.us

Jimmy Purcell, Fire Prevention Officer
(903) 239-5532 - Fax (903) 234-8919
jpurcell@ci.longview.tx.us
Longview Fire Marshal's Office
200 S Center St, Longview, TX 75601