Since 1977, the Arson Alarm Foundation (AAF) has been in place to fight against arson in Washington state. What began as a grassroots campaign by the insurance industry, fire service and community members has grown into a robust nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness, preventing arson and rewarding those who help stop it.
A brief history
Resulting from a surge in arson-related incidents in the 1970s in Washington state, the AAF was officially introduced to spearhead a multimedia public service advertising campaign. At the heart of the campaign was a 24/7 toll-free hotline empowering citizens to confidentially report tips.
Award program
One of AAF’s most impactful initiatives is the $10,000 annual award fund, aimed at rewarding individuals whose information leads to the arrest or conviction of arsonists. Since 2000, the AAF has awarded $101,500 from the fund.
Tip line
Every fire leaves clues, but sometimes the most important one is a tip from the community. There are several ways to assist investigators in tracking down suspected arsonists. Call 1-800-55-ARSON to report suspicious fire activity in Washington (calls can remain anonymous). Your information could help:
- Identify suspicious individuals or activity near fire scenes
- Document timelines (e.g. when did smoke or flames appear?)
- Provide evidence like video footage, vehicle descriptions or witness accounts
- Submit an anonymous tip on the AAF website: www.arsonalarm.org
Unsolved fires
Several high-profile arson cases in Washington remain unsolved, with investigators still seeking tips.
One such case is the Nov. 11, 2024 Camp Long Lodge fire, which destroyed part of a historic structure in West Seattle. Authorities believe the fire was deliberately set and have posted AAF award posters at the scene, hoping someone will come forward with a lead.
Cases solved
The AAF award program isn’t just symbolic—it’s working.
In 2022, a community member received a $1,500 award after coming forward with information about the Bell Tower fire in Seattle, which burned a vacant Seattle Housing Authority building slated for renovation. The tip helped fire investigators make progress on a difficult case, leading to increased public awareness and accountability.
Visit www.arsonalarm.org to submit a tip and support arson prevention in Washington.
Sources: Seattle Fire Department and Arson Alarm Foundation