SPRINGFIELD – The Office of the Illinois State Fire Marshal is raising awareness about arson and the seriousness of this crime, while educating Illinois residents about the true cost of arson and it’s impacts on individuals and communities. The theme for Arson Awareness Week 2022 is Arson in Homeless Communities: Engagement – Education – Outreach.
According to the National Fire Protection Association, municipal fire departments in the United States responded to an estimated annual average of 52,260 intentionally set structure fires in the five-year period from 2014 to 2018. These fires caused an estimated 400 civilian deaths, 950 civilian injuries, and $815 million in direct property damage each year. Three in five intentional structure fires occurred in residential properties and most of these fires involved homes. The incidence of these fires typically peaks in March and April and again in July. In 2021, OSFM Arson Special Agents responded to 1,053 investigations and canine teams assisted in 202 investigations. In 2021, the OSFM’s Arson Division closed 41 arson related cases with an arrest. The OSFM Arson Division consist of seven Accelerant Detection Canines and 17 Special Agents who aid and assist fire and police department across the state.
“I strongly encourage fire departments to work together with law enforcement partners to educate members of their communities about the serious consequences of arson,” said Illinois State Fire Marshal Matt Perez.
For more information about arson prevention and the OSFM Arson Division, visit www.sfm.illinois.gov.
Weekdays 7pm to Midnight
