Bakersfield Juvenile Firesetters Program
The
Bakersfield Juvenile Firesetters Program has adopted a policy
to provide service to the parents of juvenile firesetters who
reside in the City of Bakersfield in the interest of deceasing
the incidents of firesetting. Requests for services can be
made by the parents or legal guardian of the child or school
officials. Referral to the program comes through fire suppression
personnel, fire investigators, the Juvenile Justice System,
or through Mental Health Services.
Interviews
are conducted by trained field personnel to determine whether
the firesetting behavior was accidental, curiosity, or symptomatic
of deeper problems. Educational intervention is utilized for
the accidental and curiosity firesetter. When firesetting behavior
is determined to be indicative of more serious problems, referral
to specialized social service or mental health agencies will
be recommended.
The Bakersfield Juvenile Firesetters Program is a multi-level approach to the education and/or treatment of identified juveniles involved in firesetting behaviors. The program has been designed for preschool ages through teens. Participation is voluntary except for those referred by the Juvenile Justice authorities.
The program consists of five parts. Each part has a unique role in the process yet all are interconnected.
Bakersfield Juvenile Firesetter classes
are offered bi-monthly on Saturday mornings. These courses
are free of charge to residents of Bakersfield and Kern
County.
Additional information and a current class schedule
can be obtained by calling (661)326-3911.
Additional Information:
