Arson Tips

Arson is the crime of intentionally or maliciously setting fire to structures, wildland areas, cars or other property.  Arson often involves fires deliberately set to the property of another or to one's own property as to collect insurance compensation.

Reward money is available through the Iowa State Fire Marshals Office for anyone who has information that would lead to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for an arson crime. 

Anyone with information about any intentionally set fire can contact the Ottumwa Fire Department at 683-0667, extension 3, or the Iowa Arson Hotline at 1-800-532-1459.    Callers may remain anonymous.   A reward is available for reliable information that leads to the arrest and conviction of the persons involved.

Arson has a cost to all of us.   When an arsonist strikes, the entire community may suffer.   In addition to possible loss of life, the economic losses can include:

•Loss of jobs, with resulting loss of income
•Medical cost to the injured
•Expense to fire services in fighting and investigating the crime
•Resulting increase in property taxes and insurance premiums
•Blighted areas where buildings once stood