Are you Aware of Arson Fires?

    While encouraging wildfire preparedness this week, CalFire is also reminding residents of the dangers posed by ARSONISTS.
    CalFire is pleased to join the US Fire Administration (USFA) in announcing the theme for the 2013 Arson Awareness Week, which takes place May 5-11, 2013, is to provide all residents with strategies to combat ARSON in their neighborhoods.

   There were149 confirmed ARSON caused wildfires in California in 2011.  Total confirmed acreage was 15,896.  38 fires were confirmed as roadside cigarettes for 40 acres. Many fires are never known as to the cause.
 
   Then the Sentinel recommends:
 
   Do you have an ARSONIST in your neighborhood? That is, anyone with mental problems and  who simply doesn't get along with their neighbors, trespasses, etc? Also Alcoholics, your neighborhood drunks!

   According to the USFA's National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) during 2008-2010, an estimated 16,800 intentionally set fires in residential buildings occur annually in the US.

   These fires result in an estimated 280 deaths, 775 injuries and $593 million in property loss each year.

   The average dollar loss for an intentionally set fire in a residential building is $21,320.

   The fatality rate for intentionally set residential fires was more than twice that of other residential building fires.

   ARSON fires rob neighborhoods and comunities of valuable assets such as lives, property and natural resources", states CalFire Assistant Deputy Director Clare Frank.

   "Residents can do a lot to prevent arson by safeguarding their homes and keeping a watchful eye on their neighborhood."

   What can I do to protect my home against arson? We have already notified authorities of who would be the ones responsible if anything happened to our home. Have you?

   *  Illuminate exterior and entrances to your home.  Install MOTION ACTIVATED lights on all sides of the house. They are relatively inexpensive.

    * Install video cameras all around your property. For a minimal amount, you can have evidence on film.  THIS IS THE MOST IMPORTANT OF ALL!!

   *We disagree with clearing all obstructions. Let the dirty rats trip over wires or other traps you can leave for them. Why make it easy?

   *  Install smoke alarms and FIRE SPRINKLER SYSTEMS?  Do they realize what a sprinkler system costs?

   * Keep your DOORS and WINDOWS locked.  This isn't the good old days. You may not even know it, as we do, but you too, can have CRAZY neighbors.

    *Plant and keep green grass all around your home. It makes a great fire break.

   And whether it is a wildland fire or a house fire, investigators need your help.  The public is encouraged to call the CalFire ARSON HOTLINE 800-468-4408 if any suspicious activity is observed.

   Anyone you observe trespassing on your property, you should assume is a FIREBUG!! Turn them in right away. Don't wait until the fire starts.

   There are rewards of up to $10,000 available for information leading to an arrest and conviction of persons responsible for committing the crime of arson within CA state jurisditction.