Fire Investigation

This course is associated with the following programs:

• Fire Protection Technician - Associate Degree

1. Identify the responsibilities of a firefighter when responding to the scene of a fire, including scene security and evidence preservation.
2. Describe the implications of constitutional amendments as they apply to fire investigations.
3. Identify key case law decisions that have affected fire investigations.
4. Define the common terms used in fire investigations.
5. Explain the basic elements of fire dynamics and how they affect cause determination.
6. Compare the types of building construction on fire progression.
7. Describe how fire progression is affected by fire protection systems and building design.
8. Discuss the basic principles of electricity as an ignition source.
9. Recognize potential health and safety hazards.
10. Describe the process of conducting investigations using the scientific method.
11. Identify cause and origin of fire as well as whether accidental and incendiary.
12. Explain the procedures used for investigating vehicle fires.       
13. Identify the characteristics of an incendiary fire and common motives of the fire setter.