A Youth Firesetter Intervention Program is a community-based initiative designed to address the dangerous behavior of children and adolescents who engage in fire-setting. The program aims to prevent future incidents by providing education, counseling, and support to both the child and their family. It is typically coordinated by fire departments, mental health professionals, juvenile justice systems, and schools. Lincolnton Fire Department is heading the program efforts for our county. 

Key components of a Youth Firesetter Intervention Program include:

1. Assessment: The program assesses the youth’s fire-setting behavior, understanding the motivations (curiosity, experimentation, emotional distress, etc.) behind it. A risk assessment helps determine the level of intervention needed.

2. Education: Education about fire safety is a core part of the program. Youth and their families are taught the dangers of fire, its consequences, and fire prevention strategies. This often includes lessons on the legal and financial repercussions of fire-setting.

3. Behavioral Interventions: For youth who exhibit fire-setting behavior due to emotional or psychological issues, the program provides counseling or therapy. The goal is to address the underlying causes of the behavior, such as trauma, anger, or family issues.

4. Family Involvement: Parents or guardians play an important role in the program. They receive guidance on supervising their child, reinforcing fire safety education, and addressing any behavioral or emotional concerns.

5. Collaboration with Other Agencies: The program often works with schools, law enforcement, and social services to ensure the youth receives comprehensive support. In some cases, juvenile justice systems may mandate participation in the program for youth who have been caught engaging in fire-setting.

6. Follow-Up and Monitoring: After the initial intervention, there is often follow-up to monitor the youth’s behavior and provide ongoing support if needed, ensuring they do not return to fire-setting behaviors.

Overall, the Youth Firesetter Intervention Program aims to reduce the risk of future fire-related incidents, protect the youth and the community, and provide long-term behavioral solutions.

There is no progress to report in 2023 because this program began in 2024.

A dedicated team has been working diligently to establish the Youth Firesetter Intervention Program in Lincoln County, focusing on creating a comprehensive and effective structure for success. This select group is committed to addressing the critical issue of youth firesetting and is actively developing strategies to integrate the program into our school system. By collaborating with educators, parents, and community stakeholders, we aim to provide valuable resources and support that will help educate young people about fire safety and prevention. We are excited about the positive impact this program will have on our community and look forward to its implementation in our schools in 2025.