Investigating fire scenes is an arduous task. Fire accidents are not always arson scenes, but the possibility seldom dies. Therefore, in the slightest hint, fire investigation experts with specialization in arson should be hired to investigate the scene. Arson fires can be set because of multiple reasons like neglect, revenge, hatred, or even because of some pyromaniacs. An arson expert must start properly documenting the scene right from the investigation’s onset to get the best results. Writing arson scenes is not easy and must be left to experts only. These few tips are necessary for proper documenting of arson scenes.
Arson scenes can be hazardous and life-threatening. Therefore, proper safety measures must be taken from the beginning of the investigation. Protective clothing is a must while entering areas still under the fire impact. Clearance of the fire scene is important to safeguard the lives of people. Burn victims should be helped immediately. As evidence could be present in the victim’s clothes, their clothes and other stuff should be collected for investigation after they are secured.
- Interact with the first responders and witnesses.
An investigator reaching the arson scene must interact with the people there. Collect all the required details and document them properly for future reference. Determine the amount of help needed and work for scene security. Talk to the witnesses and gather as much information as possible. Question everyone present there and make notes.
- Take Photographs and videos.
An investigator must click photographs of every essential location or person. He must make videos of the fire in progress and the entire arson scene from all possible angles so that they would remain safely documented. This task can become difficult in the dark, so special techniques and tools must be used to make it possible. Please take pictures of all the evidence and properly write their name, location, and time, as it is crucial.
- Describe and document each detail.
A detailed and written description of the entire case is a permanent record and can be easily reviewed if any reference or recollection is required. The report can be done with diagrams, drawings, and crime scene sketching. These written descriptions are very beneficial for judicial purposes. Documenting the arson scene makes the work easier and more efficient, which helps in solving the case faster.
- Avoid contamination
Be sure to safeguard the entire arson scene from contamination. The scene’s integrity can be lost if the uncontrolled invasion of unnecessary people pollutes it. The following points should be considered to prevent contamination:
- Usage of clean and protective outer garments and footwear.
- Storage of evidence in properly sealed containers.
- Not allowing unnecessary access to the arson scene.
- Storage of fire debris carefully.
- Collection of evidence with proper tools to prevent mixing of DNAs and other essential information
Documenting arson scenes is essential to bring justice to the victims of the fire. Therefore, no carelessness can be shown while investigating such scenes.
