The first step in a fire investigation is the preliminary scene examination/size-up. The purpose is to determine how the fire started and why the fire behaved the way it did. Fire and arson investigators examine the physical attributes of a fire scene and identify and collect physical evidence, such as accelerants, tampered utilities, and specific burn patterns, which may indicate criminal activity.
To prove arson there must be evidence of a burning and a criminal act that caused the fire. The accused must have intentions to burn a building or other structure. Data collected through an investigation is a key element in addressing a community's fire problem.
Sketching and Mapping
The crime scene sketch is the graphic document of the investigation. It can be drawn with a pencil or with the use of advanced diagramming software such as MyDraw. This type of diagram/sketch presents the layout, orientation, and interrelationships of the scene and evidence. It supports the final, allows viewers to quickly understand the scene set-up.
Elements of the sketch
