Juvenile firesetting continues to be a problem throughout the nation, including right here in Illinois. In 1996, the Illinois State Fire Marshal appointed a Juvenile Firesetters Task Force.

The goal of the Task Force is, "To develop and coordinate a comprehensive statewide program to identify, intervene with, and counsel juveniles to reduce fire deaths, injuries, and property damage from criminal and non-criminal fires."

The task force membership represents various state agencies, local agencies, and related interests in the juvenile firesetting area, including the fire service, law enforcement, judicial system, health care system, and other agencies with mandated responsibilities. The membership reveals the comprehensive commitment to bringing the relevant parties and talents to the table to study the firesetting problem.

 

Devastating Effects of Juvenile Firesetting