Arson...a word which should strike fear into all of us. It signifies destruction, devastation, and death. Arsonists deliberately set fire for profit, revenge, hate, thrills...and it is a major criminal activity in Michigan.
Arson affects everyone. No exclusions. Workers lose jobs, towns and cities lose tax dollars, burned buildings create blighted areas, and innocent people are injured or killed. It costs the nation and Michigan's taxpayers millions of dollars each year. In Michigan, 37% of all fires are classified as arson or "suspicious". Arson's impact on the national and state economy is being recognized more by concerned citizens and organizations. Obviously, an effective battle against arson can be accomplished only by the concerted action of dedicated groups and individuals.
The Michigan Arson Prevention Committee (MAPC), formed in 1973, is Michigan's front line task force against arson. Michigan's Arson Prevention Committee is a divergent group of concerned and dedicated individuals with a strong commitment to reducing the arson problem in this state. It is comprised of representatives from fire and police services, business, insurance industry, and government.