According to the Insurance Information Institute, arsonists destroyed nearly $900 million in insured property and killed 295 civilians nationwide in 2007.Arson for Profit is when businesses or individuals set fires to reduce financial loss, recoup investments or dispose of depreciated assets - usually for a payout from insurance companies.
The National Fire Protection Association says that in 2005 an estimated 323,900 intentional fires reported to U.S. Fire Departments resulted 3 firefighter on-duty deaths, 1,500 civilian fire injuries and 7,600 firefighter on-duty injuries.
These avoidable costs are too great to ignore. If you suspect someone has or will commit arson, report them to law enforcement officials before it is too late.
Firefighters and innocent families are endangered when desperate people illegally burn their homes, businesses and cars for insurance bailouts. Arson is also raising insurance premiums at a time of great financial uncertainty.
To reduce your chance of becoming an arson victim, the U.S. Fire Administration and Los Angeles Fire Department recommend...
- Secure and monitor unoccupied and abandoned buildings.
- Remove trash, debris and other combustible items.
- Remove or securely store flammable material and chemicals.
- Lock your doors and windows.
- Report suspicious activity to law enforcement.
- Support local Neighborhood Watch programs.
- Provide exterior and entrance illumination.
- Remove garbage cans during nonschool hours.
- Keep dumpsters at least 10 feet from buildings and overhangs.
- Place discarded materials in secured containers.
- Lock and secure your vehicle.
Submitted by Brian Humphrey, Spokesman
Los Angeles Fire Department
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