What should firefighters do to avoid compromising evidence at a fire scene?

Waiting for investigators to arrive is essential for preserving evidence at a fire scene. Firefighters must be aware that a fire scene can contain critical evidence that is necessary for determining the cause and origin of the fire, as well as for any potential legal actions that may follow.

By allowing investigators to arrive and assess the scene before any significant alterations occur, firefighters can help ensure that physical evidence remains intact, such as patterns of burn damage, potential accelerants, and other clues that could inform an investigation. Fire scene investigators often need to document the area, take photographs, or collect samples in a specific sequence to maintain the integrity of the evidence.

Engaging in actions such as conducting interviews immediately, starting extinguishing fires right away, or initiating damage control routines can inadvertently disturb or destroy evidence. These actions may lead to challenges in the investigative process or misinterpretation of the fire's cause. Hence, ensuring that investigators can perform their work without interruption helps uphold the integrity of the evidence and supports a thorough investigation.