Estimates of arson losses have run as high as $1.5 billion. However, police have been reluctant to take on arson cases because of overwork and a lack of investigatory training. The speaker describes recent Federal antiarson efforts including a Senate hearing in September, 1978; subsequent LEAA funding; and the development of the arson task force concept which involves interagency cooperation among fire, police, and investigatory agencies such as the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms (BATF). In addition, he discusses courses offered by the National Fire Academy leading to a certificate in arson investigation and antiarson efforts by the BATF, FBI, and the U.S. Fire Administration.