SAGINAW & FLINT -- In Saginaw, dozens of volunteers turned up Wednesday night at United Methodist Church to get prepped on Arson Watch 2011.
Arson Watch was started in 2007 in an effort to cut down on the number of arsons around Halloween night. In 2006 there were more than 50 fires in the city of Saginaw. Since Arson Watch was formed, the number of arsons around Halloween have dwindle to just three last year.
"We're giving out flashlights and T-shirts and giving them safety tips of what to do and what not to do. We're asking the volunteers to not be vigilantes. If they see something suspicious, they need to call police or the fire department," said Interim Fire Chief Ricardo Longoria.
In another effort to cut down on arson around Halloween more than 100 homes were boarded up and another 100 were razed.
"There's too much crime going on. There are a lot residents who want who want the area to be nice nd safe for thier kids and for themselves," said Jose Barajas, president of the Southwest Neighborhood Association.
Volunteers will be given free soda and cofee from participating McDonald's and Tim Horton's locations.
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Flint area residents are also gearing up for Angel's Night.
Volunteers with Salem Housing have been out boarding up empty houses on Flint's North Side. Groups are gathering through Monday to ensure that the streets remain safe.
Salem Housing and the City of Flint are asking residents to keep an eye out for any suspected trouble. They also advice residents to leave a porch light on during the evening and night hours, and to wet down any piles of leaves or brush that could easily set on fire.
"We try to make sure that any of our houses that are currently vacant, that we have them securily boarded. We help neighborhood groups do the same thing," William Hammond, Executive Director of Salem Housing, told NBC25.
Salem Housing is looking for volunteers not just for the Halloween season, but throughout the year. If you'd like to learn more, you can visit their website.
