Practical Fire Investigation

Course overview and learning outcomes

This programme has been developed and is delivered in conjunction with the College of Policing (COP) for both fire investigators and forensic investigators.

This is a blended programme, consisting of internet-based pre-course study (25 hours), followed by a one-week practical course. All of the practical elements of the course are delivered at the FSC.

The course provides delegates with the underpinning knowledge and understanding required for the role of a fire investigator and develops their investigative skills as a fire/crime scene investigator.

Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of the programme, delegates will be able to:   

• Have an understanding of basic fire science, combustion, fire behaviour, toxicology of fire debris and electricity as a cause of fire
• Recognise the roles and responsibilities of the different agencies that may be involved in a fire investigation
• Work as an effective member of a multi-agency team in fire investigation incidents
• Maintain health and safety at a fire investigation
• Identify and analyse post-fire indicators that may be present at a fire scene in order to determine origin and cause of fire
• Identify the effects of an explosion at a fire scene
• Identify the signs of arson
• Use observational skills to identify items recovered from the debris, and to recreate the fire scene to identify points of origin
• Prepare and deliver a presentation on a fire investigation and the findings