Fire Investigations Guidelines

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What is the primary responsibility of the Incident Commander when the investigator is not yet on the scene?

Notify the investigator of the discovery (correct)

Oversee the overhaul process

Examine the fire scene for evidence

Secure the fire scene until the investigator arrives

Which of the following is the primary objective of the first phase of overhaul?

To determine the area of origin

To preserve fire patterns and evidence (correct)

To thoroughly inspect the entire fire scene

To extinguish any remaining hotspots

What tool can be used to help determine areas that need to be more closely examined for overhaul during the first phase?

Shovel

Thermal imaging camera (correct)

Flashlight

Fire extinguisher

When should the second phase of overhaul take place?

After the investigator has completed their examination and analysis of the fire scene Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the second phase of overhaul?

To thoroughly inspect the entire fire scene Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary responsibility of members in regards to the impact of overhaul on the fire investigation and preservation of the scene?

To understand the impact of overhaul on the investigation and scene preservation Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is the primary goal of the first phase of overhaul?

To inspect for fire extension Signup and view all the answers

What is the recommended starting point for the first phase of overhaul?

At the area of least fire damage Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of the investigator taking charge of all evidence immediately or as soon as possible?

To ensure the evidence is properly preserved Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary reason for performing overhaul in a two-phase process?

To minimize the impact on the fire investigation and preservation of the scene Signup and view all the answers

What is the main focus of Article XVIII - F according to the guidelines provided?

Preserving evidence at fire scenes Signup and view all the answers

According to the guidelines, what action should be avoided at the fire scene unless absolutely necessary?

Moving contents Signup and view all the answers

Under what circumstances should a Fire Investigator be requested to the incident scene?

When the fire involves suspicious circumstances Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of limiting overhaul at a fire scene?

To preserve the fire scene for investigation Signup and view all the answers

Why should suppression personnel refrain from turning knobs and operating switches at a fire scene?

To prevent interference with evidence collection Signup and view all the answers

In the context of Article XVIII - F, what does 'incendiary' mean?

Intentionally set on fire Signup and view all the answers

What is the responsibility of all members regarding preserving the fire scene?

Leaving as much intact as possible, with contents remaining in their pre-fire locations Signup and view all the answers

What are considered incendiary indicators that point towards possible arson?

Multiple fire sites and presence of flammable liquids Signup and view all the answers

What is the responsibility of firefighters when disconnecting electrical service at a fire scene?

Leave individual circuit breakers in their pre-fire condition for examination Signup and view all the answers

What do fire patterns refer to in the context of a fire scene investigation?

Visible physical effects that remain after a fire Signup and view all the answers

Who should members notify when physical or other evidence is discovered at a fire scene?

Fire/Arson Investigator Signup and view all the answers

What is the responsibility of members regarding observation in a fire investigation?

Viewing the fire scene during and after the fire occurs Signup and view all the answers

Why is preserving fire patterns essential for fire investigation?

To assist in determining the area of origin of the fire Signup and view all the answers

What is included in the definition of 'evidence' in a fire scene investigation?

"Everything in the fire scene including physical structure, contents, and other materials" Signup and view all the answers

When should a Fire/Arson Investigator be requested according to responsibilities outlined?

When criteria related to Section 2.2 are met Signup and view all the answers

What should members do if there is no main breaker available at a fire scene?

Take note of any breakers in 'off' position before turning off all breakers Signup and view all the answers