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Last updated on Friday, May 6, 2016
(INDIANAPOLIS) - State fire investigators are thanking the public and reminding them that their help is important to finding criminals who set fires.
The Indiana Department of Homeland Security (IDHS) and the Indiana State Fire Marshal welcome the public's help in providing information related to fire investigations throughout the state. May 1-7 is Arson Awareness Week in Indiana, and IDHS is reminding all Hoosiers that any additional information from citizens can help expedite cases for investigations.
"While we never want to see someone's home or business burn under any circumstances, it is especially troubling when the fire was set intentionally," said State Fire Marshal Jim Greeson. "We as an agency try to work as quickly and as diligently as possible during our fire investigations, but we always welcome help from the public."
Citizens are reminded to always be aware if they see a fire in their area. Should a fire start nearby, those in the area should keep a safe distance and call 911. If someone is seen fleeing from the area where the fire has occurred, take note of the person's appearance and pass this information on to the authorities.
IDHS took part in 549 fire investigations last year, 164 of which were determined to be intentionally-set fires. As a result, 41 suspects were arrested in connection to these fires. So far, IDHS investigators have assisted with 208 investigations in 2016 where fires were determined to be intentionally-set, and 10 arrests have been made.
The Indiana State Fire Marshal oversees the IDHS Division of Fire and Building Safety. To report information to IDHS regarding arson, call 1-800-382-4628. All calls will be kept confidential.
For more information on fire safety, visit GetPrepared.IN.Gov.
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