Expand your fire investigation knowledge with in-depth guides on this blog. Understand fire investigation procedures, learn how to make better fire investigation reports, and find the best tools for the job.
Fire Investigation is the process of determining the origin and cause of a fire. It requires a deep understanding of fire scienceand an analytical approach. Fire investigators use a variety of methods and tools to understand how a fire started and progressed. Fire investigation is a form of forensic science that focuses on incidents that involve fire, both by accident and intentionally, so it doesn’t recur in the future.
Fire investigators face several challenges on a typical day, but a clear understanding of what it involves makes it easier to decide if it’s the right career for you. Using a fully-featured case management software like BlazeStack also makes the entire process easier, more efficient, and accurate.
Fire investigation requires a systemic approach to ensure consistent and quality results. Investigators need to follow specific fire investigation procedures when it comes to the initial response, assessments, documentation, evidence collection, fire scene photography, fire pattern analysis, and report writing. The scientific method for fire investigation is also widely followed in the industry.
All fire investigation professionals must follow the process outlined in NFPA 1321, NFPA 1033 and NFPA 921 standards to ensure investigations are thorough, accurate, and legally sound. Browse through our collection of articles on fire investigation procedures for a better understanding of what it involves.
Fire investigation reports are detailed documents compiled by investigators after an incident to determine the origin, cause, and circumstances of the fire. Typically, these reports include an incident overview, witness accounts, scene analysis, evidence collection documentation, findings, and recommendations.
These reports are necessary for safety and fire prevention improvements, insurance claims, and legal proceedings. Learn more about how to create accurate fire investigation reports and why they’re important with these articles.
Professionals in this field need specialized fire investigation tools and equipment to collect evidence, conduct analysis, and document the scene accurately according to protocol. Specialized tools and equipment like personal protective equipment (PPE) also help ensure the safety of investigators.
Fire investigation tools can include evidence markers, sketching materials, cameras, fire scene tool kits, mapping software, digital imaging, and more. Read our collection of articles in this category to learn more about the advanced technologies and tools that can help streamline investigations.
The right fire investigation software can help state agencies, private fire investigation firms, and state agencies save time and ensure thorough investigations. BlazeStack, for example, allows fire investigators to log, document, and report their investigations.
Some of the features you should look for in fire investigation software include the ability to collect and store data on-site, collaboration features, and automated report generation. Learn more about software for fire investigations and what it can do for you.
A career in fire investigation is challenging, exciting, and rewarding. This is a highly skilled job, so it’s important to have a thorough understanding of what’s involved before you decide if it’s right for you. In most cases, you’ll need a postsecondary degree in criminal justice, fire science, or a related field.
Certification and training programs offered by the National Association of Fire Investigators (NAFI) and the International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI) can also help you get a fire investigator job. Read our collection of articles to understand more about how to become a fire investigator, specializations, and career advancement opportunities.
Fire investigation companies specialize in investigating the origin and cause of fires. These companies may provide a variety of services, including site assessments, identification of ignition sources, fire pattern analysis, witness interviews, evidence collection, documentation, expert testimony, and consultation services.
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