EVIDENCE COLLECTION AND SCENE DOCUMENTATION

Classroom Sessions:

Day 1: Introduction to Fire Scene Investigation

• Introduction to fire investigation principles
• Roles of first responders and investigators
• Understanding origin and cause determination
• Fire patterns and indicators (V-patterns, burn marks)
• Types of fire scenes (accidental, natural, incendiary)
• Importance of scene integrity

Day 2: Scene Security & Preservation

• Securing the fire scene (perimeter control)
• Establishing access control and scene logs
• Preventing contamination and evidence loss
• Coordination with law enforcement and agencies
• Scene safety considerations
• Legal authority and responsibilities

Day 3: Evidence Identification & Collection

• Types of evidence:
• Physical evidence (debris, wiring, appliances)
• Chemical evidence (accelerants, residues)
• Documentary evidence
• Witness evidence
• Evidence collection techniques
• Use of tools and equipment
• Packaging, labeling, and storage of evidence
• Chain of custody procedures

Day 4: Scene Documentation Techniques

• Importance of accurate documentation
• Note-taking techniques
• Scene photography (wide, mid-range, close-up shots)
• Sketching and diagramming fire scenes
• Video documentation methods
• Use of digital tools and reporting formats

Day 5: Reporting, Legal Aspects & Practical Application

• Preparing fire investigation reports
• Legal considerations and evidence admissibility
• Presenting findings in court
• Case studies of fire investigations
• Practical exercises (scene documentation & evidence handling)
• Course review and final assessment