This resource is designed to encourage critical thinking and aid comprehension of the course material. The Student Workbook also includes an answer key that is page referenced to the Fire Investigator: Principles and Practice to NFPA 921 and 1033 text.

Scientific Protocols for Fire Investigation, Third Edition focuses on the practical application of fundamental scientific principles to determine the causes of fires. Originally published in 2006, the First Edition was very well received by fire investigators and those who work with them. Since fire investigation is a rapidly evolving field—driven by new discoveries about fire behavior—the Second Edition was published in late 2012. This latest, fully updated Third Edition reflects the most recent developments in the field. Currently, serious research is underway to try to understand the role of ventilation in structure fires. Likewise, there is improved understanding of the kinds of errors investigators can make that lead to incorrect determinations of the causes of fires. In addition to the scientific aspects, the litigation of fire related events is rapidly changing, particularly with respect to an investigator's qualifications to serve as an expert witness. This book covers these latest developments and ties together the changing standards for fire investigations with the fundamental scientific knowledge presented in the early chapters of the book. The book is intended for those individuals who have recently entered the field of fire investigation, and those who are studying fire investigation with a plan to become certified professionals. In addition, professionals in the insurance industry who hire fire investigators will find this an invaluable resource. Insurance companies have sustained significant losses by hiring individuals who are not qualified, resulting in cases being settled or lost at a cost of millions. Insurance adjusters and investigators will learn to recognize quality fire investigations and those that are not up to today's standards. Lastly, this book is also for the many attorneys who litigate fire cases. Written with language and terms that make the science accessible even to the non-scientist, this new edition will be a welcome resource to any professional involved in fire and arson cases.

Ongoing advances in arson detection tools and techniques increase the importance of scientific evidence in related court proceedings. In order to assemble an airtight case, investigators and forensic scientists need a resource that assists them in properly conducting the chemical analysis and interpretation of physical evidence found at scenes of s

This bestselling second edition introduces new case studies to illustrate concepts explained in the text and includes information about eliminating accidental causes of fires and investigating fatal fires. Additional information on studies in bloodstain evidence found at fire scenes is presented as well. The book also addresses the National Fire Protection Association Standards 921, regarding proper fire investigation procedures, and NFPA Standards 1033, Fire Investigator Qualifications. The NFPA Standards are the recognized standards in the industry, and are essential information for all fire investigators, from rookies to veterans.

"This updated and expanded third edition continues the theme of the second edition of providing extensive research findings in all types of electrical fires. This book describes in a practical and easy-to-understand manner the patterns of electrical fires which make it easier to determine where an electrical fire started. Specific topics include: (1) the general background and essential elements of fire initiation; (2) codes and standards, testing laboratories approval, non-electrical fires, arc mapping and V-patterns; (3) disassembly of equipment, nameplates, equipment misuse, abuse, and repair; (4) the gathering, preserving, and shipping of evidence, keeping records; (5) common clues, melting points, and insulation degradation; (6) common components, moveable contacts, switches and relays, circuit breakers and panels, conduit joints, heating elements; (7) appliances, wall outlets and switches, light bulbs, reversed polarity; (8) arson, telephones and answering machines, igniters, debris inspection; (9) reports, depositions and trials, report purpose and appearances; (10) fire initiation and spread, space heaters, wires, and other heat-producing mechanisms; (11) fire characteristics and general precautions; (12) electrical systems and grounds, general wiring; (13) photography and camera features; (14) electrical circuits and waves; and (15) electrical power equipment, transformers, generators, rectifiers, and motors. This book is an excellent resource not only for arson investigators but for attorneys, the insurance industry, and manufacturers who are concerned with electronic reliability."--pub. desc.

This innovative new textbook from an experienced author who has served as a public safety official, fire marshal, instructor, and both a career and volunteer fire fighter, presents a concise and comprehensive look at the full spectrum of fire investigation for first responders. The text meets and exceeds the National Fire Academy’s Fire and Emergency Services Higher Education (FESHE) course objectives and requirements for Fire Investigator I (C0283). It enables fire fighters and fire officers to assist assigned fire investigators, to the fullest extent possible, with thorough discussions of important topics such as the legal system and spoliation, as well as evidence identification, collection, documentation, and preservation. The author emphasizes the role of the fire investigator in prevention, encouraging first responders to consider themselves seekers of truth who use real-world tools such as the National Fire Incident Reporting System (NFIRS) to make their communities safer.This textbook includes:Case Studies—Each chapter begins with a case study written by a subject matter expert with deep expertise in fire investigations and prevention. Each case study highlights actual events and lessons learned to emphasize the first responder’s role in fire investigation.Key Features—The organization of each chapter is optimized with helpful features such as Learning Objectives, Case Studies, Boxed Tips, Summaries, Key Terms, Review Questions, and Discussion Questions designed to provoke thoughtful consideration and generate classroom debate.An emphasis on practical application and knowledge, including full-color photos and illustrations that illuminate critical components of investigation such as building construction, fire protection systems, burn and smoke patterns, and vehicle fires.