The film describes the average arsonist as 27 years old, white, male, and with no previous record. In addition, half the arsonists were found to have an IQ of 99 and half had a drinking problem. The film defines the crime of arson, describes the effects of the crime, and shows recent efforts to identify and prosecute the arsonists. Different types of arsonists are depicted in the film including the arsonist who sets fires for political motives such as a terrorist; the building owner who has the structure burnt in order to profit from the insurance; the 'torch' or person hired by the owner to set the fire; the criminal who wishes to destroy evidence such as fingerprints; persons who commit arson from motives of revenge or vanity such as the woman who burns the possessions or clothing of a man who has angered her; vandals; and pyromaniacs or persons who set fires for the pleasure of watching the blaze.