What is Firesetters?
Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service’s Firesetters Scheme has been running since 1995 and is designed to advise children and young people with firesetting behaviour.

The aim of the Scheme is to help children and young people understand and control the feelings and circumstances that lead them to set fires.

Our advisers will also help the child or young person to understand the results of their actions through a series of visits and educational exercises at the child’s home or other neutral venue.

Who are the Advisers?
All of our Advisers are employed by Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service and have various roles including firefighters, control room staff and non-uniformed support staff.

Our Advisors receive some of the most comprehensive training available and partnered with their Fire Service experience, achieve excellent results.

Why Children Set Fires
Children who play with fire do so for various reasons.  These can include genuine curiosity, attention seeking, anger and revenge.

Without help and guidance, firesetting behaviour can become increasingly serious and lead to injury, damage to property and tragically, death.

How to Refer a Child
If you think the problem is serious or you cannot deal with it on your own - seek help.  Getting help is easy, please contact us using the Referral Form on the right of this page and we will do the rest.  Alternatively, you can contact us by email, telephone or in writing - please see Firesetters details on the Contact Us page.  We will acknowledge receipt of each referral within 2 working days.

If you think that you know of a child or young person who could benefit from being referred to the Firesetters Scheme, call Devon & Somerset Fire & Rescue Service on 01392 872315/872357.  Referrals will usually need the consent of a parent or carer.

Tell-Tale Signs of Habitual Firesetting
- Small burn holes in carpets
- Charred paper in sinks or waste baskets
- Matches or lighters hidden in your child’s room, school bag or coat
- An unusual fascination with fires
- Unexplainable fires in the home

Advice for Parents and Carers:
Is your home safe for your children?
- Ensure your home has at least one smoke alarm installed
- Keep matches and lighters safely out of reach of children
- Never leave children alone in the house
- Explain the dangerous nature of fire
- Teach your children to stop, drop and roll if their clothes catch fire