Fire Safety Intervention
Many children and young people have a fascination with fire but, for some, this fascination can take a dangerous turn and lead to fire-setting. Our Fire Safety Intervention Scheme is a free service that aims to deter children from becoming involved with further fire-setting behaviour.
Essex County Fire and Rescue Service is here to help.
Our trained practitioners work in pairs to offer help, guidance and education to young people up to and including 17 years of age; they can visit children in their homes, at school or a designated place of safety. Our practitioners can also provide sessions over the phone if required.
Signs of fire setting include:
- Small burn holes in carpets
- Charred paper in sinks or bins
- Matches or lighters in your child's bedroom, school bag or coat
- An unusual fascination with fire
- Unexplained fires in the home
Anyone can make a direct referral to the Fire Safety Intervention Scheme. We've received referrals from parents, family members, schools and other agencies.
Please note that an intervention can only take place with the permission of the parent or guardian of the child.
For further information regarding the Fire Safety Intervention Scheme and/or to make a referral:
Please complete our online form: Fire Safety Intervention Referral Form
Meet our FSI Practitioners
Ben Pullen
"My role as an FSI Practitioner extends beyond fire safety and education; it’s about building trust, showing compassion, and providing the right support based on each individual’s needs. Through the FSI scheme I’ve seen significant behavioural changes, including successfully guiding young people to join the Fire Cadet program. One of my most rewarding experiences was helping a young person struggling with mental health, where my intervention connected various agencies to create a safer environment at home. My work is not only about preventing fire-related incidents but also about steering young people away from negative behaviours and supporting them in building a brighter future. The FSI scheme is an essential part of preventing harm and promoting positive change within our community."
Amie Elliott
"With over 20 years of experience working with children and young people, I’ve loved every moment of this journey. From hands-on roles to management, I’ve helped shape services that support the next generation. Now, I’m part of the Education and Specialist Intervention team at Essex County Fire and Rescue Service, working with passionate people dedicated to prevention and education. One of my proudest achievements is growing outreach events for children outside traditional schooling, engaging with families, and sharing vital safety messages. Every day brings something new, and I love it."
Steve Bonsor
"I’ve proudly served as an FSI Practitioner for over a decade, delivering vital fire safety advice to young people across Essex. The results I’ve seen from the FSI scheme have been incredible, and I know our efforts are making a real impact on the lives of the young people we meet. Alongside my FSI work, I am the the Lead Instructor for the Service's Firebreak programme. I’m also in charge of the Southend Fire Cadet unit, which recently reopened - something I’m very proud of. Every day is an opportunity to make a difference. Whether I’m leading a crew at an emergency scene or educating a young person about the dangers of fire setting, I’m passionate about the positive change we can create through fire safety education."
