The paper notes that each community must develop an arson control strategy that is appropriate to its unique problems, but outlines the general responsibilities of an organizing committee and provides examples of standard operating procedures regarding investigations, data collection, and public education. Also examined are evaluation and long-range goals, such as reducing arson incidents and arson-related deaths. The discussion of issues to be addressed when considering leadership options recommends that leadership rotate annually between law enforcement and fire agencies. Advantages that fire, police, and prosecutorial agencies can bring to a task force are described, emphasizing the need for intensive interagency communication. Although participating agencies have primary responsibility for funding a task force, private industry and the Federal Government also offer grants and training programs that help offset these costs. Agencies involved in major Federal anti-arson programs are identified, such as the U.S. Fire Administration and the Federal Bureau of Investigation. The paper contains six footnotes.