Youth Fire Prevention and Intervention

Free Fire Safety Education

Any youth in Arlington County that has exhibited an unsafe fire behavior or an unusual interest in fire is eligible to participate in the Youth Fire Prevention and Intervention program free of cost. Youth may be identified by their parents, school officials, mental health professionals, courts or within the fire service. The program may be court mandated or voluntary, however, all participants are expected to be respectful and participate fully.

The program consists of three educational sessions between the youth and fire department educator(s). The sessions occur after school hours on a day agreed upon by the participant and the educator. Homework assignments are assigned and expected to be completed by the date given.  The educational materials are age appropriate but all participants will receive information on fire science, fire safety, peer pressure and consequences of poor decision making.

Request more information: call (703) 228-4644 or email

Advice for Parents

• Ensure matches and lighters are stored out of children’s reach, preferably in a high, locked cabinet.
• Teach young children to tell a grown-up if they see matches or lighters.
• If your child expresses curiosity about fire or has been playing with fire, calmly but firmly explain that matches and lighters are tools for adults only.
• Use only lighters designed with child-resistant features,
• Install smoke alarms on every floor and in every bedroom your home.
• Make a fire escape plan and practice it with your family.
• If you suspect your child is intentionally setting fires or playing with fire, get help.

More Safety Tips from the NFPA