The Congress directed the U.S. Fire Administration of the Federal Emergency Management Agency to prepare a detailed report on these subjects. The overview is intended as a framework for the larger report. The first section considers the restraints of traditional roles for authorities having to deal with the prroblem, the high profits and low risks of arson, the complexity of the crime, the increase of psychologically-motivated arson, and the lack of dissemination of effective anti-arson programs. The second section discusses State and local anti-arson capabilities as they relate to the management of arson prevention and control programs, the investigation and prosecution in arson cases, economic factors in arson, and the psychology and behavior of firesetters. The third section provides information on current Federal programs, interagency agreements, and opportunities for future Federal action. In the fourth section, the nature and extent of State and Federal arson laws are briefly considered, and the approach of the larger report to legislative improvements is reviewed. The fifth section points out some of the cost-benefit considerations which must be taken into account with recommendations for improvements in anti-arson measures. A summary of the recommendations which are made in the larger report is appended.