How to Be Fire Investigator - Job Description, Skills, and Interview Questions

The cause of a fire can have a devastating effect on a community. Fire investigators are tasked with the important job of determining the origin and cause of a fire. Through the use of tools such as gas chromatography, accelerant detection kits, and thermography, fire investigators can analyze debris from the fire scene to determine the source of ignition, as well as any accelerants that may have been used.

By collecting witness statements and physical evidence, they can help build a case to determine if the fire was accidental or arson. A successful investigation by a fire investigator is vital in order to ensure justice is served and provide closure to the victims of a fire.

Steps How to Become

1. Get a Bachelor’s Degree. Most fire investigators are required to have at least a bachelor's degree in a related field such as fire science, criminal justice, or engineering.
2. Obtain Certification. Different states have different requirements for fire investigators. Some states require certification from the International Fire Service Accreditation Congress (IFSAC). Other states may require certification from the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA).
3. Gain Experience. Fire investigators may gain experience as a firefighter, law enforcement officer, or hazardous materials specialist.
4. Take Additional Courses. Most fire investigators take additional courses in arson investigation, fire dynamics, and fire origin and cause determination.
5. Apply for Jobs. Fire investigators are typically employed by fire departments, law enforcement agencies, or insurance companies. They may also be contracted out to work on specific cases.

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This can lead to feelings of isolation, difficulty forming meaningful relationships, and a decrease in overall social interaction. technology has changed the way people access information and can increase their exposure to inaccurate or potentially damaging material. As such, it is important to maintain a balance between the use of technology and traditional methods of communication.

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Job Description

1. Investigate fires and other related incidents to determine their causes.
2. Interview witnesses and victims to gather evidence.
3. Collect and analyze physical evidence such as debris, fire residues, and electrical components.
4. Examine burn patterns to determine the origin of the fire.
5. Prepare detailed reports that document the investigation process and findings.
6. Testify in court as an expert witness regarding the findings of their investigations.
7. Maintain detailed records of all investigations, reports, and evidence.
8. Develop and implement fire safety programs in commercial and residential areas.
9. Educate the public on fire safety precautions and protocols.
10. Develop and review fire safety codes and regulations.

Skills and Competencies to Have

1. Knowledge of fire dynamics, fire chemistry, and fire safety regulations.
2. Investigative skills to locate and analyze physical evidence.
3. Knowledge of building construction and materials to determine the origin and cause of fires.
4. Ability to interpret and evaluate witness testimony, photographs, diagrams, and drawings.
5. Ability to use fire-detection systems and computer-aided design (CAD) programs.
6. Knowledge of electrical systems, wiring, and fire alarms.
7. Ability to conduct tests and experiments in a laboratory setting.
8. Ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data.
9. Ability to write reports and present findings in a clear and concise manner.
10. Ability to effectively interact with law enforcement and other agencies.

The most important skill for a fire investigator is the ability to think critically and analyze data. This requires the ability to identify patterns and uncover cause-and-effect relationships between different elements. To do this effectively, the fire investigator must have a thorough understanding of fire science, arson investigation methods, building construction, and fire dynamics.

They must also be able to communicate effectively with other members of the team, including firefighters and other first responders, and have a comprehensive understanding of the legal implications of their findings. Furthermore, the fire investigator must be prepared to work long hours in challenging environments, often under hazardous conditions. With these skills, the fire investigator is able to use their knowledge and experience to determine the origin and cause of a fire and bring those responsible to justice.

Fire Hydrant Technician, Firefighter/Inspector, and Fire Inspector are related jobs you may like.

Frequent Interview Questions

• What experience do you have as a Fire Investigator?
• Describe an investigation that you conducted and its outcome.
• How do you handle difficult or stressful situations?
• What specific areas of expertise do you have that would be beneficial to this role?
• How would you go about interviewing witnesses and suspects in a fire investigation?
• What safety protocols do you adhere to while on the job?
• How do you stay up to date on the latest tools and techniques used in fire investigations?
• How do you handle working with local law enforcement and other organizations on fire investigations?
• How would you prioritize your case load when investigating multiple fires?
• What challenges have you faced or do you anticipate facing in this role?

Common Tools in Industry

1. Thermal Imaging Camera. A device used to detect and measure temperature differences in a given area. (eg: identify the hottest spot in a burned area of a building)
2. Flashlight. A handheld device used to generate light in dark areas. (eg: to illuminate dark corners of a structure)
3. Soot Sampler. A device used to collect samples of soot from the scene. (eg: determine the origin of a fire)
4. Gas Meter. A handheld device used to measure concentrations of combustible gases in an area. (eg: measure the levels of carbon monoxide in an enclosed space)
5. Combustion Analyzer. An instrument used to measure the amount of oxygen, carbon dioxide, and carbon monoxide in a sample of air. (eg: check if a fire was caused by an accelerant)
6. Fire Scene Photography Kit. A kit containing cameras, lenses, and other photography related items used to document a fire scene. (eg: take pictures of the evidence at the scene of a fire)

Professional Organizations to Know

1. International Association of Arson Investigators (IAAI)
2. International Association of Fire Safety Science (IAFSS)
3. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
4. National Association of Fire Investigators (NAFI)
5. National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS)
6. Society of Fire Protection Engineers (SFPE)
7. International Association for Fire Safety Science (IAFSS)
8. Association of Firearm and Tool Mark Examiners (AFTE)
9. International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC)
10. International Code Council (ICC)

We also have Fire Officer, Fire Lieutenant, and Rescue Technician jobs reports.

Common Important Terms

1. Fire Scene. A physical location where a fire has occurred.
2. Fire Scene Examination. The process of thoroughly examining the scene of a fire to determine the origin, cause and circumstances of the fire.
3. Fire Investigations. The systematic investigation of a fire scene to determine the origin, cause and circumstances of the fire.
4. Fire Cause Determination. The process of analyzing evidence collected from the fire scene to identify what caused the fire.
5. Fire Prevention. The practice of reducing the risk of fire occurrence and minimizing the impact of fires when they do occur.
6. Fire Dynamics. The study of how fires start, grow and spread.
7. Fire Codes. Codes and regulations that specify standards for fire safety in buildings, structures and other areas.
8. Fire Safety Education. Instructional programs designed to educate people about fire safety and prevention.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary responsibility of a Fire Investigator?

The primary responsibility of a Fire Investigator is to determine the origin and cause of fires and explosions.

What qualifications are necessary to become a Fire Investigator?

To become a Fire Investigator, one must typically possess at least a high school diploma or equivalent, although some positions may require an associates or bachelor's degree in fire science or a related field. Additional certifications and training are also required.

What type of equipment do Fire Investigators use?

Fire Investigators typically use a variety of specialized equipment, including thermal imaging cameras, combustible gas detectors, laser systems, and moisture meters.

What type of environment does a Fire Investigator work in?

Fire Investigators usually work in hazardous environments and may be exposed to extreme temperatures, smoke, and fumes.

How much does a Fire Investigator earn?

The median salary for a Fire Investigator is around $58,000 annually.

What are jobs related with Fire Investigator?

• Fire Prevention Officer
• Fire Equipment Technician
• Hazardous Materials Technician
• Wildland Firefighter
• Fire Apparatus Engineer
• Firefighter/EMT
• Fire Captain
• Forest Firefighter
• Fire Recruit
• Fire Prevention Specialist

Web Resources

• Example Career: Fire Investigators - West Virginia University www.wvu.edu
• Fire Investigator Course Description - University of Illinois Urbana ... www.fsi.illinois.edu
• Fire Investigation | Columbia Southern University www.columbiasouthern.edu