Public Education in Arson Awareness

• NCJ Number: 87599
• Author(s): R P Kurmis; B T Law; V Markowski; S E Marrs; R E Mauck; W J McDonald; S J McManus; N J Povlich; L E Prior; S Taylor; J Thomas
• Date Published: 1982
• Length: 24 pages
• Publication Format: Document
• Language: English
• Country: United States of America
• Note: Fire/Arson Investigation Research Paper, November 1-19, 1982

Annotation

This outline of a program of public education in arson awareness includes the major topics of selection of program personnel, material resources, distribution of information, a reward program, an arson hot line, block watchers, and education.

Abstract

Personnel selected for the program should have knowledge in the field of arson and investigative experience, as well as skills in public speaking establishing community contacts, and devising training programs. Organizations contacted by program personnel should include church and business organizations, social/featural organizations, schools, media organizations, and legal groups, as well as influential citizens. Material resources may be secured by asking local businesses and organizations to donate materials and equipment (printing companies, shopping centers, and billboard companies). Materials may also be obtained from existing programs and insurance companies. Information can be distributed through posters, newsletters to all concerned groups, lectures to community and business groups, newspapers, television, radio, billboards, and bumper stickers and buttons. A reward program may obtain assistance from insurance companies, local businesses, and the district attorney's office. The establishment of an arson hot line will involve obtaining a 24-hour phone recording machine, contacting the telephone company for assistance, and obtaining financial assistance. The creation of block watchers involves organizing residents into arson block watchers, appointing one person in the group to report to the unit, and continually informing the group about possible target buildings. In the education program, adult groups should be educated first, and juvenile education should begin in the lowest grades possible. Police and fire personnel should be made aware of the importance of public involvement in combatting the arson problem. The attachments are two programs that may be helpful in establishing an arson awareness program. Four footnotes are listed.