A person who willfully and maliciously attempts to set fire to or willfully and maliciously attempts to burn or to aid, counsel, or procure the burning of any of the buildings or property mentioned in sections 502-504 of this title, or who willfully and maliciously commits any act preliminary thereto, or in furtherance thereof, shall be guilty of arson in the fourth degree, and shall be imprisoned not more than two years nor less than one year or fined not more than $500.00, or both. (Amended 1971, No. 199 (Adj. Sess.), § 15; 1981, No. 223 (Adj. Sess.), § 23.)