Fire Investigations for First Responders

This innovative new textbook from an experienced author who has served as a public safety official, fire marshal, instructor, and both a career and volunteer fire fighter, presents a concise and comprehensive look at the full spectrum of fire investigation for first responders. The text meets and exceeds the National Fire Academy’s Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) course objectives and requirements for Fire Investigator I (C0283). It enables fire fighters and fire officers to assist assigned fire investigators, to the fullest extent possible, with thorough discussions of important topics such as the legal system and spoliation, as well as evidence identification, collection, documentation, and preservation. The author emphasizes the role of the fire investigator in prevention, encouraging first responders to consider themselves seekers of truth who use real-world tools such as the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) to make their communities safer. This textbook Case Studies―Each chapter begins with a case study written by a subject matter expert with deep expertise in fire investigations and prevention. Each case study highlights actual events and lessons learned to emphasize the first responder’s role in fire investigation. Key Features―The organization of each chapter is optimized with helpful features such as Learning Objectives, Case Studies, Boxed Tips, Summaries, Key Terms, Review Questions, and Discussion Questions designed to provoke thoughtful consideration and generate classroom debate. An emphasis on practical application and knowledge, including full-color photos and illustrations that illuminate critical components of investigation such as building construction, fire protection systems, burn and smoke patterns, and vehicle fires.