Abstract
The given paper delves into the peculiarities of the functioning of the arson investigation unit. Being an integral part of the fire security system, it contributes to the improved understanding of the main causes that preconditioned flame development, and conditions that resulted in the fixed paces of fire spread. The complexity and importance of the given tasks result in the increased importance of the comprehensive investigation of the functioning of specialists who work in the given sphere. In this regard, the document is a set of guidelines that could be used by new investigators to assure that they do not violate any laws and act by the suggested procedure appropriately investigating the crime scene. The paper has an introduction that presents the main topic, the body, where the most important information could be found, and the conclusion, which summarizes all assumptions suggested in the body and outlines their unique importance.
Arson Investigations
Investigation of fire or arson is an important task that should be performed by members of an arson investigation unit. It provides the information needed for the further analysis and discovery of the main causes for the development of fire. Additionally, the data collected in the process of this examination will help to find people responsible for arson and determine the degree of their guilt. However, the given process might be complicated as numerous factors related to the character of fire, its peculiarities, and spread should be taken into account. For this reason, a certain experience in the given sphere is needed to become an efficient and competent member of the arson investigation unit. The following guidelines will help to outline the most important things that should be given specific attention.
Besides, the investigation of a crime arson scene is a complex process that consists of several stages. First of all, having arrived, a specialist has to observe conditions and activities and provide a complete description for people who will delve into its investigation (“A guide for investigating fire and arson: arriving at the fire and/or arson scene,” n.d.). Crime scene parameters should be noted and recorded. Besides, the location of the given scene and condition of victims and witnesses should be mentally noted. Moreover, vehicles that leave the scene are another vital point that should be given attention (Burnette, n.d). Additionally, an investigator should also determine flame and smoke conditions as well as the weather and structure conditions as they might be dangerous (“Arriving at the fire and/or arson scene: evaluating the scene,” n.d.). Examining the scene, a specialist should also determine whether there is a risk of explosion or not as it might result in new victims. For this reason, types of fires and explosive materials should also be considered. Finally, unusual characteristics and the state of fire security system are other crucial points that have to be investigated by an arson unit specialist. The data collected from these observations will help to avoid the further development of fire and contribute to the improved comprehending of the causes of this appearance.
Therefore, as it comes from the above-mentioned list of actions that should be performed when a fire department personnel arrives at arson, their role remains crucial. Having unique experience in the given sphere, they should be considered the only agents who should be allowed to coordinate and manage fire fighting activity. In this regard, their authority at an arson fire is unique. They are allowed to give orders, close off a crime scene, call for additional help, engage other specialists, and explore any remedies that should be used to fight the fire and assure that surrounding building and people are safe (“Arriving at the fire and/or arson scene: processing evidence at the scene”, n.d.). In other words, they bear responsibility for the positive results and can use all possible remedies.
Besides, fire department personnel could also be assisted by some other specialists belonging to this very system. For instance, fire marshals provide advisory services to fire departments that could be found in the area (Reno, Marcus, Lou Leary, & Samuels, 2000). Moreover, they could also help to investigate a certain fire and process the data collected during the examination performed at the first arrival. However, a fire marshal performs a wide array of functions that depend on the state and peculiarities of laws that outline his/her authority. A fire marshal could also assist in the enforcement of laws related to fire prevention and align cooperation with other agencies to guarantee improved results (Reno et al., 2000). Additionally, this specialist works with the arson detection reward. This specific task is introduced to guarantee that a person responsible for this act would be found.
A medical examiner and a coroner are other specialists who could help members of an arson investigation unit to examine the crime scene and provide complete and credible information. The fact is that some fires might result in victims. In case a body is discovered, a medical examiner or coroner should be provided with an opportunity to look at it. The character of wounds, burns, and injuries might provide data about the causes for the appearance of fire, its character, and substances which served as a fuel (Reno et al., 2000). Furthermore, considering the position of a body and its state, a coroner might also determine whether the fire was unpredicted or people have some time to respond to it (Reno et al., 2000). In case a person is alive, and some medical assistance is needed, a medical examiner will be able to determine this need and assure that it will be fulfilled. Finally, the procedure of corpse identification should also be started.
Besides, the investigation should not be stopped when a scene is declared safe by the fire environment. On the contrary, when there is no direct threat and specialists can work without any limitations, the investigation could become even more efficient. Researchers will be able to find the flame base and discover how it developed, what substances were used, and why the fire evolved in one or another way. However, the given examination is possible only in case the permission of a property owner is given. The fact is that it is vital to act by the existing laws and preserve the right for the property. In case an owner of this very property is not available, a search of a warrant is needed to ensure that all rights will be observed (“Search warrant requirements”, n.d.).
Conclusion
Altogether, we could conclude that the investigation of an arson scene is a complex task that should be given great attention. The data that will be found in the course of the investigation will be used to determine the character of fire, the main causes for its appearance, and several other important peculiarities. For this reason, all specialists working with arsons have unique authorities that are introduced to guarantee the peoples lives will be saved and no danger will appear.
References
Arriving at the fire and/or arson scene: evaluating the scene. (n.d.). Web.
Arriving at the fire and/or arson scene: processing evidence at the scene. (n.d.). Web.
A guide for investigating fire and arson: arriving at the fire and/or arson scene. (n.d.). Web.
Burnette, G. (n.d.).Documentation of the fire scene: a legal perspective. Web.
Reno, J., Marcus, D., Lou Leary, M., & Samuels, J. (2000). Fire and arson scene evidence: a guide for public safety personnel. Web.
Search warrant requirements. (n.d.). Web.