What Is a Fire Investigator and How to Become One
Table of Contents
What Is a Fire Investigator?
A fire investigator investigates the cause of fires, particularly when arson is suspected. Fire investigators examine the crime scene, process latent print samples, gather evidence using collection tools, interview witnesses, process the evidence collections, and report their findings to law enforcement agencies. A fire investigator examines the crime scene and determines how the fire started. Similar roles include arson investigator, firefighter, and forensic science technician.
How to Become a Fire Investigator
Many fire investigators use previous work experience in law enforcement or forensic science to become fire investigators. However, you can also gain experience as a volunteer firefighter and earn a certificate in fire science. The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that nearly 80% of fire investigators work in local government, so inquire with a local government agency about job openings as a fire lookout or forestry technician to gain on-the-job experience, then apply to become a fire investigator.
What Tools Do Fire Investigators Use?
Fire investigators use different collection tools to gather evidence at a crime scene. For example, evidence collection kits include incident report notebooks, evidence cans, tweezers, and other items in one large toolbox. Fire investigators also use a fuming chamber to collect each latent print collected at the crime scene along with debris sifters and evidence tents. Each of these collection tools helps the fire investigator to prepare evidence collections and make advancements in the arson case.
