[louise]

it is frightening to social workers who are supposed to know about these things and have the answers to fixing the problem!

I would be reluctant to knowingly take a child with this propensity. My reluctance could be eased, I think, with a comprehensive safety plan, 24 hour assistance in the home (particularly at night), intensive support by way of interventions, therapy, group support for the child and adequate respite. I would also think that a placement such as this might be more successful in a home with older children who could also be support and are likely to not be as fearful of a firesetter as much younger kids.