Arson affects everyone - no exclusions. Workers lose jobs, towns and cities lose tax dollars, and people are injured or killed. Citizens are becoming aware of the negative impact of arson on national and state economies; they are realizing that an effective battle against arson will be accomplished only when individuals and groups take action. Members of the Oakland Fire Department believe that together, we can reduce economic and personal loss from this crime.

Documents:

• Preventing Arson & Vandalism
  from California Attorney General’s Office
  
  
• Pamphlet on Arson Prevention for America'S Churches and Synagogues

Residential Precautions

• Secure your home and garage by locking doors, windows and gates. Make sure that windows, screens and doors can be opened easily from inside, if needed for escape.
• Trim shrubs from doors and windows to improve visibility.
• Leave outside lights on when it's dark.
• Team up with neighbors to form a "Neighborhood Watch" group. Call the Oakland Police Department Neighborhood Watch Coordinator at 238-3091.
• Clear garages of materials that could fuel a fire. Eliminate wastepaper, piles of grass weeds, litter and other combustibles from areas around buildings. Get yard clutter removed for free with a Bulky Pickup - call Waste Management of Alameda County at 510-613-8710.
• Homeowners and vacant lot owners in the Oakland Wildfire Prevention District may schedule free tree and brush chipping services by calling the Oakland Fire Department at (510) 238-7388.

Juvenile Firesetting and Arson

Parents have the primary responsibility to ensure a safe environment and teach safe behaviors. Effectively done, these lessons will impact the child and the whole community. Below are things parents can do: Set a good example - Install and maintain smoke alarms and fire extinguishers. Follow manufacturer's directions and always use fire safely.

Take responsibility for fire safety - Point out to your children the fire safety rules you follow and discuss the dangers of fire. Control access to fire - Keep ignition devices out of reach of children and teach them to tell an adult if they find them. Identify telltale signs - Check in waste baskets, under beds and in closets for burned matches or other evidence your child is misusing fire. If you find evidence, react positively. Using it as a teaching opportunity.