What Is the Leading Cause of School Fires?

School fires are a leading cause of property damage, injury, and death in the United States. Each year, an average of 3,830 structure fires in educational properties are reported to U.S. fire departments. These fires cause an estimated $754 million in direct property damage. They also cause an estimated 10 civilian deaths, 100 civilian injuries, and 3,300 fires in residential properties.

The leading cause of school fires is deliberate ignition. Arson is the intentional lighting of a fire for the purpose of causing damage or destruction. It is a criminal act that can have tragic consequences.

According to the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA), arson is the leading cause of school fires, accounting for 47% of all structure fires in educational properties from 2007-2011. Arson is also the leading cause of death, injury, and property damage from school fires.

Schools are a common target for arsonists because they are usually unoccupied during evening and weekend hours. Arsonists may also view schools as a symbol of authority or a source of frustration. Fires set by arsonists can cause extensive damage and put the lives of students, teachers, and first responders at risk.

There are a number of steps that schools can take to prevent and mitigate the effects of arson. These include facilities management, security measures, and fire prevention education.

Facilities management involves maintaining the school building and grounds in a condition that deters arson. This includes keeping the building in good repair, trimming shrubbery, and ensuring that all doors and windows are securely locked.

Security measures can deter potential arsonists and help to identify them if they do attempt to set a fire. These measures include installing security cameras, alarms, and lighting; posting signs that warn of the consequences of arson; and establishing a fire watch program.

Fire prevention education is essential for all members of the school community. This includes teaching students about the dangers of arson and the importance of fire safety. Fire prevention education should be incorporated into the curriculum at all grade levels.

One of the most serious consequences of starting a school fire is the potential loss of life. In a fire, seconds count. Every year, people die in fires because they didn't have enough time to get out.

In addition to the loss of life, fires also cause billions of dollars in damage. Schools are a major investment for any community, and a fire can destroy years of progress. It can take years to rebuild a school, and in the meantime, students have to be relocated.

Fires also have a psychological impact on the students, teachers, and staff who are impacted by them. Even if no one is hurt, the experience of a fire can be traumatizing. Many people struggle with anxiety and depression after a fire, and it can be difficult to return to a school that has been damaged by fire.

If you see a fire in a school, there are a few things you should do. First, you should try to extinguish the fire if it is small and you have the proper extinguisher. If the fire is too big or you don't have an extinguisher, you should evacuate the building immediately. Once you are outside, you should call the fire department.