What is the purpose of investigating fires?

By Anthony Murray, Fire Investigation Specialist at Strange Strange & Gardner

[FIRE SCENES ARE USUALLY investigated to find out what, why and in what order, the events that led to a fire took place. This is important to prevent future incidents. An investigation can also determine who may have been responsible and whether they were negligent. The data gathered from an investigation allows for the development of codes and standards and the improvement of defective products.

Fire, due to its destructive nature, can not only obliterate evidence, but it can create a misleading pattern of damage. To examine and evaluate a fire scene effectively, it is imperative that the investigator knows the chemistry and behaviour of fire and the range of possible effects.

In order to pinpoint the cause and the origin of a fire, one of Strange Strange & Gardner’s experienced investigators will conduct a comprehensive investigation. They will identify and investigate liability.

In the event that the fire scene is no longer accessible, a desktop review of the case can be conducted by examining materials such as the fire brigade report, photographs, witness statements and retained evidence.

The aim is to identify the cause. It is possible a proprietary product such as an appliance may be faulty in which case we would recommend further investigation prior to seeking any potential subrogation. We would also consider relevant building practice and consider if there was a construction fault.

SS&G’s comprehensive reports are cost-effective and are delivered promptly. They are only a telephone call away. q