Arson 101 manual

Context:
"And why didn't this perp consult his *Arson 101 manual* before he tried to incinerate this building?"

I understand it's a manual but who's? the fire department or the criminal?
I mean is it a joke? I know it is.

My deepest thanks!!

If you help yourself with the Merriam-Webster online (m-w.com), here's what you get for "perp":

Main Entry: perp
Pronunciation: 'p&rp
Function: noun

a perpetrator especially of a crime

and for "arson":

Main Entry: ar·son
Pronunciation: 'är-s&n
Function: noun
Etymology: Anglo-French arsoun, alteration of Old French arsin act of burning, from ars, past participle of ardre to burn, from Latin ardEre -- more at ARDOR

the willful or malicious burning of property (as a building) especially with criminal or fraudulent intent

This should help a little bit.
"Arson 101 manual" may need further explanation though...

"101" is the designation for many beginner or Level 1 classes.

Yes, "arson 101 manual" is a joke in itself. I found this text referring to a "101 life safety...":
"Enforces fire prevention codes and ordinances such as NFPA, 101 life safety and building codes; reports violations of fire safety laws to the Fire Marshal."
To read more:
iep.cviog.uga.edu/ Athens/personnel/FIRE/5713.HTM