This means learning the warning signs and taking fire setting behaviors seriously. Early identification, intervention and education as measures of the prevention of future fire setting behavior do work. A 1997 study by the University of Maryland suggests that collaboration with families, schools and communities along with simultaneous investments in each are key to carrying out successful prevention initiatives. An effective youth firesetting program incorporates each of these key components into the process. Collaboration between the schools and the fire service is of particular importance in identifying these children as early as possible and the providing the necessary educational and, if needed, psychological intervention.
Teachers are unequivocally the most valuable windows to society's future.
Every day teachers interact with students at a variety of levels. Teachers are in a critical and valuable position in helping to recognize some of the characteristics that are associated with dangerous behaviors. Teachers observe students over a period of time. Teachers are also able to be part of educational planning teams for students along with other teachers, thus being able to communicate with other teachers and professionals about observed behaviors in a student. No doubt, increased communication between school district personnel and fire department personnel would be a powerful tool in reducing child-set fires and the devastating and violent consequences of such behavior.