Deliberate Firesetting Behaviour

Psychological Perspectives for Frontline Practice
Approved through the BPS CPD Quality Mark Scheme | Online Self-Paced Training | 5 CPD Hours

Understanding deliberate firesetting requires more than knowledge of fire safety, it requires an understanding of the people behind the behaviour. This evidence-based online course provides frontline professionals with practical insight into the psychological factors associated with deliberate firesetting, helping them engage more effectively with individuals, identify risk factors, and support prevention and intervention efforts.

Developed by Chartered Psychologists and grounded in leading research, the course translates complex psychological theory into practical strategies that can be applied across community, criminal justice, health, and fire service settings.

Who it’s for

     

    • This professional development course is designed for those working with individuals who deliberately set fires, particularly in prevention, education, or intervention roles. It is suited to:

    • Fire and Rescue Service staff involved in prevention, education, and community safety

    • Probation and criminal justice professionals

    • Health, social care, and community safety practitioners

    • Voluntary and third sector professionals working with vulnerable individuals or offender groups

    • No formal academic prerequisites are required. Learners self-declare their professional role at registration to ensure the course is appropriately targeted.

What you’ll learn

Gain insight into the psychology of deliberate firesetting and strengthen your confidence in applying evidence-based approaches to prevention and intervention.

You’ll learn how to:

     

    • Describe key characteristics of individuals who engage in deliberate firesetting

    • Differentiate between adults and emerging adults who set fires and other offender groups

    • Distinguish between one-time and repeat firesetters, exploring risk factors and motivations

    • Analyse barriers and enablers to effective engagement

    • Evaluate good practice and identify ways to enhance your own professional approach

What’s included

     

    • Access to the self-paced e-learning module (approx. 5 hours)

    • Pre-recorded video content, transcripts, interactive activities, and knowledge checks

    • Reflective Practice Log to support personal reflection and application of learning

    • Condensed reference list highlighting key research and readings

    • Certificate of completion approved through the BPS CPD Quality Mark Scheme for the purposes of continuing professional development

    • Access to the e-learning platform for six months from registration

Affiliation

    • Approved through the BPS CPD Quality Mark Scheme for the purposes of continuing professional development. 

    • Learners who successfully complete the e-learning module and all knowledge checks will receive a Certificate of CPD Completion (5 CPD hours).

£250 + VAT