One of the most important steps in a fire investigation is investigating the arson site immediately after the incident. The evidence and information that's collected during this step is very much a determining factor in getting to the bottom of an unexplained fire.
The following are five mistakes to avoid when taking records at arson sites that could potentially compromise an investigation:
Not networking to find the right witnesses
Eye witness testimonies are one of the most important sources of evidence in an arson investigation. However, it's important to put effort into finding the right witnesses to pinpoint the most valuable testimony available. Ask around the scene when you're investigating an arson incident. Unfortunately, it's not uncommon for witnesses who have the most valuable testimony to leave the scene before the investigator gets there. Make sure you ask if anyone was present at the time of the fire who left before you arrived. If there were people present who left, make sure you track them down and get a full interview from them as soon as possible.
Not taking enough photographs and/or limiting yourself to poorly lit photographs
You can never take enough photographs of the arson scene. However, it's true that some scenes require proper lighting for the photographs you take to be worthwhile. As such, you should not only bring a camera, but also lighting apparatuses so that you can take proper photographs.
Being inattentive when approaching arson scenes
Sometimes, observations you make from a distance when you arrive at an arson scene turn out to be the most insightful. Take some time to approach the arson scene with caution and to have your eyes open even when you're still at a considerable distance from the actual site. Nearby obstacles and landmarks could have had an impact on the cause of the fire. Make sure you're not inattentive when you're approaching the scene so that you don't miss out on some important insights.
Having the wrong tools
The tools you use to investigate an accident scene are as important as the consideration and time you put into the investigation. Among the many important tools you need to have with you are collection bags, tool cleaning supplies to avoid cross contamination, containers for accelerants, notebooks for taking interviews and notes, and high resolution camera equipment.
Putting off analysis of evidence
The best time to analyze evidence you collect from the arson site is immediately after your initial visit to the scene. Immediately after you collect evidence, your investigation is fresh in your mind and you'll be the most capable of performing an insightful analysis of the evidence you've collected, like at Fire Science Investigations.
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