174 Fires in Maine in 2014 Were Set by Kids

The State Fire Marshal's Office says 174 fires in Maine in 2014 were set by kids, causing injuries, deaths and $2.5 million in damage. The State Fire Marshal's Office conducted a study between 2000 and 2010. In that period, 2,531 fires were started by juveniles, causing 14 deaths, 115 injuries and over $40 million in damage.

According to WGME, nearly all of the kids were male, and just over half were between the ages of 11 and 15.  Fire officials are seeing an increase in the number of females setting fires, and they seem to be targeting people rather than objects. There is also a rise in thrill-seekers, using fire to have fun, and often posting about it on social media. Officials don't know whether the indication is there's more of it or more of recognition of it. (WGME)