NCJ Number
212415
Date Published
2004
Length
329 pages
Annotation
This book, which presents a step-by-step approach to arson investigation, can be used as a reference source for the arson investigator in the field and as a textbook for classroom use.
Abstract
The introductory chapter outlines the features of the 13 steps in an arson investigation. Subsequent chapters provide the knowledge needed to complete these steps. Following the introduction, a chapter addresses the behavior of fire in a discussion of the physics of fire, including methods of measuring physical fire characteristics and relationships of the various types of energy. This is followed by a chapter on the cause and origin of a fire, with attention to points of origin, flammable and combustible liquids, outside and interior fire scene examinations, the recognition and protection of evidence, and large fires and gas fires. A chapter on electrical fires discusses the variety of uses of electricity, electrical terminology, and procedures for determining whether a fire had an electrical origin. A brief chapter on automobile fires presents a standard procedure for such investigations, supplemented with additional investigative tips. Another chapter provides basic knowledge on distinctive investigative procedures to follow when there is suspicion that a juvenile may have started the fire. Investigative techniques to use when insurance fraud is suspected as the motive for arson are described in another chapter, followed by seven chapters that discuss issues that may be part of any fire investigation. These issues are fatal fires, motives for fire setting, interviews and interrogations, polygraph and voice stress tests, fire-scene photography, the nature and use of the Arson Information Management System, and court cases. Questions and answers accompany each chapter. A 15-item bibliography