The Positive Fire Behaviour Programme is an educational input designed to work with children who engage in firesetting behaviour, have an interest or a curiosity with fire, or have a fear of fire.
To submit a referral, please follow this link:
Positive Fire Behaviour Programme Referral Form
Our dedicated team of professionals are highly trained and experienced in working with children and work to the NFCC Standard. Our primary goal is to ensure every child knows how to be safe when it comes to fire.
Is the Positive Fire Behaviour Programme suitable for my child?
If your child shows an interest or a curiosity in fire, engages in firesetting, expresses a fear of fire, or engages in risky behaviours which could lead to a fire, then this Programme is perfect for your child. We work with children aged 18 and under.
Is the Positive Fire Behaviour Programme SEN and disability friendly?
Yes! Our team are experienced in working with children who have all kinds of needs. Staff are trained in how to engage with children with neurodivergence, physical disabilities and cognitive and developmental disabilities, tailoring the sessions to each individual child. Where suitable, the PFBP can be extended up to the age of 25 for those with complex needs or care leavers.
How can I keep my child safe in the meantime?
- Keep matches and lighters out of reach and out of sight of children. We recommend keeping these securely locked away.
- Never leave young children alone in the home, even for small periods of time.
- Ensure you have working smoke alarms on each floor of your home. If you suspect that a child is setting fires, we recommend that you consider fitting a smoke alarm in their bedroom.
- Create an escape plan. How will you all get out of your home if there is a fire? Make sure everyone knows the escape plan and keep the escape routes clear of trip hazards.
- Discuss what to do if your clothes catch fire: Stop, Drop, Roll.
- If there is a fire: Get Out, Stay Out, Call 999.
How much does the Positive Fire Behaviour Programme cost?
There is absolutely no cost to the PFBP as it is an entirely free service offered by DWFRS.
Is the Positive Fire Behaviour Programme a punishment or a ‘telling-off’?
Absolutely not! Our aim is to educate, never to punish. While we discuss how to implement safe fire behaviour, and how to say ‘No!’ to risky behaviour, we will never punish or ‘tell off’ a child.
Does the Positive Fire Behaviour Programme include counselling or therapy?
While we encourage reflection and consideration of actions and consequences, we do not provide counselling or therapy, and our advisors are not trained to deliver this. If your child requires this type of support, we can try to signpost you to the correct agency to access the support your child is looking for.
My child has just been referred to the Positive Fire Behaviour Programme. What happens now?
Our Arson Reduction Coordinator will process the referral as soon it has been received and call the parent or carer to discuss the next steps. A consent form will be sent and once this has been received, advisors will be allocated to the case. Advisors will then be in touch to arrange the first session.
If appropriate, a free Home Fire Safety Check will be offered.
What happens during a Positive Fire Behaviour Programme session? Can parents and siblings take part, too?
Most sessions take place at home, although they can take place at school if this is more appropriate. These are casual and informal visits with the child and offer a non-intimidating and friendly education. Parents and carers are encouraged to take part in the session, and siblings are more than welcome to take part too. During the session your child can look forward to a variety of activities that bring a focus to fire safety.
Who can refer a child to the Positive Fire Behaviour Programme?
Children can be referred to the programme by parents and carers or professionals working with the child. Professionals must obtain parental consent prior to making a referral.
How are the Advisors trained and vetted? How does DWFRS Safeguard my child?
All advisors have enhanced DBS Checks, Enhanced Safeguarding training and have been processed by DWFRS Safer Recruitment. Advisors will always work in pairs and a parent, carer or responsible adult of the child should be present for the entire duration. Your data is kept confidential in keeping with GDPR however, please be aware there may be occasions that we will need to share the information we received during a visit with relevant partner agencies. You can see our privacy notice here – Education and Young People Privacy Notice
How long does the Positive Fire Behaviour Programme last?
Each session is up to, but no longer than one hour. There is typically a minimum of two sessions, but this can be extended as appropriate upon assessment and conversation between advisors and parents or carers.
My question hasn’t been answered here – how can I contact someone to talk about the Positive Fire Behaviour Programme?
You can email the Arson Reduction Coordinator on [email protected].
Please note, we do not accept any referrals submitted by email. If you would like to submit a referral, please use this link: