​​The truth about children and fire

Curiosity in children is normal; starting fires is not — nor is it a phase. In fact, fire is potentially deadly, and it moves fast. 

Research shows that without intervention, youthful firesetting behavior tends to continue. Children who repeatedly start fires need help. 

The Minnesota Youth Firesetting Prevention and Intervention (YFPI) initiative is dedicated to the safety of our residents to getting necessary education to youth and families. 

We can connect you with local help

If your child is interest in or experimenting with fire, we can help you find a local youth firesetting prevention and intervention program. Please fill out this form and email ​it to us we will contact you.  

You can also help to protect yourself and others by maintaining smoke alarms and by controlling your child’s access to fire and ignition devices. These actions as well as providing proper supervision will greatly reduce their chances of starting a fire.

Does my child need help? 

Some signs of children misusing fire: 

• Burned spots in carpeting or grass
• Charring on toys or clothing 
• Finding spent matches in the trash basket, under beds 
• Finding lighters where you did not leave them 
• Aerosol cans in strange places, burned or not 
• Candles in children’s rooms

Early intervention is critical for kids who start fires. If you're worried, don't hesitate to contact us.

Contact us

Please email our fire and life safety educators for more information or with questions.