Stop Young Fire Starters
A virtually hidden gem to stop young fire starters in Colorado Springs has been going strong since 1995. The Fire Factor program is designed to get to the root of why a juvenile has set a fire or is interested in fire. This program has a one two punch to help families. It includes education and sitting children down with parents and firefighters to discuss the underlying reasons for the negative behavior.
I attended one of the classes to see how effective the program is to help students understand their actions. Firefighter/Paramedic Mark Romero explained why this program is successful. He said, “We are talking about consequences and decision making and really giving those kids some tools to take back with them and use the next time they are in a situation where they need to make a better choice.”
Parents and children talk with one another about their feelings and to firefighters who become a mediator and facilitator. During the class, a young boy was asked, “Who did you write your apology letter to?” He responded, “To the fire department and my Dad. What did you say? I told them I’m sorry that you were disappointed in me.” One parent talked to his son about his behavior and how the teen intended to change that behavior now and in the future. This Dad said, “What do you think you could do in the future to take care of the frustration? Throughout your life you are always going to have life bumping up against you?? His son said, “Learn better ways to deal with my frustrations, get a good education, contribute to society and be the best guy I can be.”
Some of the warning signs of potential fire setting include recent changes in behavior, attention deficits, temper tantrums, mood swings, impulsive behavior or excessive anger. Also on the list are, deliberate efforts to collect fire materials, extreme curiousity about fire and failing to get help to put out a fire.
The effectiveness of the program is in black and white with the Colorado Springs Fire Department. Less than one percent of the more than 2200 kids who’ve graduated from this class have returned.
If you’d like more information on how to enroll your child call 719-385-5950. We’ve put a link to the Fire Factor program website on Links We mentioned. There is no charge for this class for non-court ordered individuals to attend. However, the Colorado Springs Fire Department suggests a ten dollar donation because the program is supported through contributions. Court ordered attendees will be required to pay a 50 dollar fee to attend the program.
