NCJ Number
148496
Date Published
1993
Length
52 pages
Annotation
This manual provides guidelines for the implementation of components of a juvenile firesetter prevention program sponsored by a fire service, the agency most likely to house a firesetter program.
Abstract
The manual follows the format of the other materials developed under this program. It discusses an early intervention and referral program in the context of the seven components critical to the success of any juvenile firesetter program. These components are program management, screening and evaluation, intervention services, publicity and outreach, referral mechanisms, monitoring systems, and relationship with the juvenile justice system. Topics discussed under the program-management component are program planning and structure, location, multijurisdictional approach, staffing and responsibilities, training, funding, liability, the creation of interagency links, the juvenile firesetter program workshop, and jurisdictional characteristics. The screening-and-evaluation component specifies the objectives of screening and evaluation of firesetting youth and their families, the target populations for screening and evaluation, and instruments and methods for screening and evaluation. Guidance for intervention services, the third component, addresses primary prevention, early intervention, and core intervention. Information on referral mechanisms encompasses the identification of referral sources and target agencies, contacting referral agencies, the development of referral agreements, and differences across types of jurisdictions. The remaining chapters describe procedures for publicity and outreach, the development and implementation of program monitoring systems, and the creation of cooperative arrangements with agencies of the juvenile justice system.