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Arson Awareness Week Focuses Attention On Structure Fire;Learn The Facts And How You Can Prevent Arson, Says I.I.I.

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Contact: Loretta Worters, 212-346-5545

WASHINGTON, DC, May 8, 2001 - Arson or suspicious fires resulted in over $1.2 billion in property damage in 1999 (the latest figures), including factories, residential buildings, churches and motor vehicles. These fires accounted for 13.1 percent of all fires in structures and vehicles, as well as 15 percent of the property loss. There are more than 12,000 fires in vacant structures reported each year, resulting in $73 million in direct property damage, the Insurance Information Institute (I.I.I.) notes.

During Arson Prevention Week (May 6-12), the I.I.I offers the following steps to help prevent arson, focusing this year on abandoned buildings:

  • Secure vacant buildings and prevent unauthorized people from entering them, including children (who account for 48 percent of arson arrests), homeless and drug dealers.
  • Form neighborhood watch groups in your area to combat arson and other criminal behavior.
  • Work with businesses in your community to help develop economic expansion.
  • Support local government's efforts to prevent building vacancy by property owners for long periods of time.

Communities across the country struggle with the many problems associated with vacant and abandoned buildings. In addition to the issues of blight and urban decay, these buildings pose a major fire hazard that endangers the lives of citizens and firefighters, the I.I.I. says.

The Insurance Information Institute is a non-profit communications organization sponsored by the property/casualty industry. To schedule an interview, call 202/833-1580.

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