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Recent Development in the Criminal Investigation of Arson and Indoor Explosions

NCJ Number
89586
Journal
Schriftenreihe der Polizei-Fuehrungsakademie Issue: 1 Dated: (1983) Pages: 43-56
Author(s)
G Hellmiss
Date Published
1982
Length
14 pages
Annotation
This article delineates the critical questions to be raised in arson investigation and illuminates recent techniques developed for determining the origin of fires.
Abstract
It discusses the characteristics of different types of incendiary devices and substances, how they can be recognized from remains at the fire scene, and how physical evidence should be preserved and documented. Special attention is paid to investigations regarding chemical self-heating and self-ignition and to investigations of electrical causes of ignition.