NCJ Number
89788
Date Published
1983
Length
24 pages
Annotation
This document outlines basic procedures that arson investigators should follow in determining a fire's true origin. It also identifies required tools, methods of protecting evidence, recordkeeping techniques, and interviewing procedures.
Abstract
The fire investigator must first ascertain the point of origin, working from the area of least burn damage to the most severe damage. The lowest point of burn should be scrutinized since it indicates an area of intense heat or prolonged burning. Additional areas to be checked include the logical source of energy which might have caused the fire, the amount of floor damage compared to ceiling damage, and any signs of forced entry. In ruling out all accidental causes, the investigator should pay special attention to appliances or electrical equipment near point of origin, heating units, and items conducive to spontaneous combustion. Once firefighters recognize that a hotter than expected fire for ordinary conditions has been fought, they should call an arson investigator and secure the premises. The investigator must collect samples of hydrocarbon accelerant for analysis by a laboratory acceptable to the court of that jurisdiction. A combustible gas detector or a portable gas-liquid chromatograph can assist these efforts. The paper lists 55 tools needed to conduct a proper fire investigation, along with appropriate ways to collect, preserve, and transport evidence. It also identifies photographs that should be taken during the extinguishment and investigative phases of a fire and items that field, preliminary, investigation, and prosecution reports should cover. A description of the firefighter's role in observing the scene and preserving evidence is followed by suggestions for conducting interviews with witnesses. The paper contains 4 footnotes and 12 references.