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, about 20% to 30% 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.

The MAPC acts as a coordinating body between state and local agencies and the insurance industry, marshaling all available facilities and services in a unified effort to reduce loss of life and property caused by arson. This is accomplished through the activities of the MAPC's subcommittees: Juvenile Affairs, Education, Governmental Resources, Arson Control, Public Awareness, and Membership. Funding for the MAPC is provided through the Michigan Basic Property Insurance Association.

To find out more about what the MAPC has to offer the public and people in related professions, check out the links at the top of the page. You can also contact us by email, by phone at 313.877.7027, or via mail by writing to PO Box 86, Detroit, MI 48231-0086.