FST 224W - Fire Investigation

Credits: 3
Instructional Contact Hours: 3

An in-depth basic course which defines successful methods for conducting fire investigations. Specific topics include basic chemistry of fire, point of origin and fire cause, both accidental and incendiary, motivation of the firesetter, fire scene investigation, evidence collection, photography, follow-up investigation and court presentation.

Prerequisite(s): None
Corequisite(s): None
Lecture Hours: 45 Lab Hours: 0
Pass/NoCredit: No

Outcomes and Objectives

Demonstrate knowledge and selected skills for the determination of fire cause and investigation.
1. Describe fire behavior and how used in fire cause determination
2. Describe point of origin and importance of
3. Identify accidental and incendiary fire causes
4. Identify motives of fire setters and their profiles
5. Describe the role the insurance agencies in fire investigation
6. Describe the legal aspects of fire investigations, evidence collection, and court testimony
7. Be able to properly photograph and sketch a fire scent
Perform writing tasks to promote learning.
Write effectively for a specific purpose.
Demonstrate the learning of concepts through writing.