The Fire Investigation Unit (FIU) is comprised of several members of the department, from a variety of ranks. The FIU is supervised by the Fire Marshal. Fire Investigators excavate the scene, collect evidence, interview witnesses, prepare various reports and may effect an arrest. All fires, regardless of size or the amount of damage, are investigated.

OBJECTIVES & GOALS

The Fire Investigation Unit conducts thorough investigations to determine the origin and cause of each fire. Additionally, the unit works closely with several entities to determine responsibility including; neighboring fire departments, law enforcement agencies, and insurance companies.

TRAINING

All of the department investigators must have completed two-hundred and fifty-six (256) hours of rigorous training to achieve State certification as a “Fire Investigator” before being admitted into the unit. After joining the unit, members continue their training by completing an in-house task book that tests their knowledge, skills and abilities on multiple job performance requirements. It can take several months to a year to complete the task book. Members of the FIU are also required by NFPA to receive several hours of annual education to maintain their state certification.

STATISTICS

Although all fires are investigated, there are certain thresholds that will activate the FIU, and after investigation not all fires are determined to be arson. Of those fires investigated by the FIU, two individuals were arrested and successfully prosecuted for the crime of arson.