Which of the following describes an action that would be charged as arson in the fourth degree?

An action that would be charged as arson in the fourth degree typically involves attempts to set fire to a structure or property that does not pose a direct risk to life. Attempting to burn down an abandoned structure aligns well with the criteria for this degree of arson, as it focuses on the intention to damage or destroy property without the additional severity of endangering the lives of occupants or being in a highly vulnerable area like residential or forested land.

In this context, the other choices involve actions that coincide with more serious charges of arson. Burning down an occupied residential building would fall under a higher degree of arson due to the immediate threat to human life. Setting fire to forest land directly involves ecological or community safety, thus leading to more severe consequences. Similarly, maliciously burning personal property with intent to defraud indicates an intention to deceive for personal gain, which elevates the offense beyond fourth-degree arson. Each of these situations carries more severe implications than an attempt to burn down an abandoned structure.