NCJ Number
77350
Date Published
1975
Length
11 pages
Annotation
This pamphlet describes the growing threat of incendiarism to American businesses and details some steps that can be taken to prevent arson or to limit its effects.
Abstract
The problems, origins, and details of incendiarism are discussed, with examples provided of specific incidents where incendiarism either succeeded or failed. These illustrations point out the need for having unobstructed automatic sprinkler systems that work but also show that such sprinklers do not necessarily prevent determined arsonists from succeeding. Suggestions are made to maintain safeguard sprinkler systems with valves that are locked open and with back-up sprinkler systems with automatic alarm systems. Other suggestions include tight all-around general plant security, extra security in unused storage areas or warehouses, and removal of combustible materials from buildings and fences. Categories of incendiary fires and the numbers of incendiary fires in the United States from 1970-74 are illustrated. A checklist of 12 ways to foil the arsonist is also included.