Which classification would a fire fall under if it is started unintentionally due to equipment failure?

A fire that is started unintentionally due to equipment failure is classified as accidental. This classification applies when there is no intent or negligence involved; instead, the fire results from an unforeseen malfunction or failure of equipment. This is important in fire investigation because it helps in determining the cause of the fire, which is crucial for insurance claims and future preventive measures.

Incendiary fires are deliberately set, indicating malicious intent, while natural fires occur due to natural events, such as lightning strikes. The undetermined classification applies when there is insufficient evidence to conclude how the fire started. In this scenario, equipment failure clearly indicates an unintentional event, confirming that the appropriate classification for this fire is accidental.