Fire Investigatore-book

Fire Investigators collect and analyze evidence from the scene of a fire.

They use the evidence collected to determine the causes and origins of fires.

They interview witnesses and also testify in court cases involving fires, especially those involving arson.

They prepare reports on fires in cases where the cause may be arson or criminal negligence.

Fire Investigators know the science of fire behavior and how it affects various materials.

They know the procedures used for documenting and preserving the evidence they collect at a scene, including how to use testing equipment.

They use a systematic approach, usually the Scientific Method, to make sure their conclusions match the evidence from the scene.

Fire Investigators use cameras and video equipment to photograph evidence. They also use the internet to communicate with others in their field.

Fire Investigators work both indoors and outdoors, and may be on-call to investigate suspicious fires on evenings and weekends.

Most Fire Investigators have worked as firefighters or police officers to build real-life experience. Some have Associate’s Degrees in Fire Science or Criminal Justice.

The majority of Fire Investigators work for local government agencies (fire and police departments), but a few work for insurance companies, attorneys, or private firms.

Fire investigation pays about $51,000 per year and is expected to see average growth over the next ten years.