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State Fire Marshal

A Division of the Minnesota Department of Public Safety
 

Youth Fire Prevention and Intervention

​General information 

​​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 citizens to to getting necessary education to youth and families.

 

Help is available 

 
If you feel yourself or others are in immediate danger, please call 911.
 

Online form

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 have a YFPI coordinator 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? 

Tip sheet

This tip s​heet outlines signs you should look for in your child to determine whether you should contact us. Early intervention is critical for kids who start fires. If you're worried, don't hesitate to contact us.

Brochure for parents

This bro​chure provides information and resources about youth firesetting. Information outlined includes:
  • What to do with matches and lighters
  • How to prevent your child from setting fires
  • How to set a good example around fire
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Contact Us

You can reach our YFPI coordinator, Doug Johnson, at Douglas.L.Johson@state.mn.us​ or 763-​.280-4609.​​

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