CUMBERLAND — Gov. Martin O’Malley has proclaimed May 3 through 9 as Arson Awareness Week to raise consciousness of this costly problem and illustrate steps that can be taken to combat it.

The Office of the State Fire Marshal, along with the U.S. Fire Administration and other organizations, teamed up this year to promote arson awareness around Maryland.

The theme is “Arson for Profit.”

In 2007, there were 2,227 arson incidents reported in Maryland, resulting in direct property damage of approximately $22 million.

Residents should re-port suspicious activity near buildings to the local police and support Neighborhood Watch programs.

An Arson Hotline is available at (800) 492-7529.