N0629 Youth Firesetting Prevention and Intervention

Incident Command System (ICS)-100-level and ICS-200-level training. Preferred courses are Q0462 and Q0463, available through NFA Online.  Chief’s signature attests that the applicant has completed this required training.

NOTE: There is an extensive, graded pre-course assignment that prepares students for engaging in the subject matter and working with firesetting youth.

This is a comprehensive 6-day course based on the requirements of National Fire Protection Association 1035, Standard on Fire and Life Safety Educator, Public Information Officer, Youth Firesetter Intervention Specialist and Youth Firesetter Program Manager Professional Qualifications.

This course focuses on how identification, intake, screening, disposition and follow-up are used to mitigate youth firesetting behavior. Course content includes understanding the motivations behind youth firesetting and how the impact of adverse childhood experiences and behavioral/mental health challenges can influence firesetting behaviors. Practical experience interviewing at-risk youth and developing case narrative is included.

Students evaluate the existing state of their youth firesetting program, develop a vision for moving forward, construct an action plan, and deliver a persuasive speech to decision-makers for advancing the program.

Students representing the fire service are encouraged to partner with other agencies for this training. Partners can include but are not limited to fire investigators, law enforcement, mental health, social services, juvenile justice or other stakeholders who can assist in building and maintaining programs in their communities.