Children and Fire
If you feel your child, you, or others are in immediate danger, please call 9-1-1.
Children are naturally curious about fire. In fact, children and adults alike find fire fascinating. Fire is part of American culture, from the baby’s birthday candle and the holiday table to the 4th of July fireworks, the cozy fireplace, and the recreational campfire.
Curiosity in children is normal; starting fires is not — nor is it a phase. In fact, fire is potentially deadly, and it moves fast.
Young children just don’t understand that, and older children overestimate their ability to control a fire. Research shows that without intervention, youthful fire setting behavior tends to continue. Children who repeatedly start fires need help.
The Minnesota State Fire Marshal Division has developed this helpline as an opportunity for citizens to find the help they need to curb fire setting by juveniles. A simple call will get help on the way. The incoming call will be answered by an automated system, and then reviewed by a deputy state fire Marshal. The deputy will then forward the case to a local authority for assistance.