ABSTRACT
The proper inspection and accurate documentation of a fire/crime scene is the most important initial step in any investigation. The notes, photos, and sketches generated to document the scene and the discovered evidence serve as an aid and ready reference throughout the investigation. More importantly, they provide the foundation for any criminal prosecution or civil action that follows. Fire scenes have traditionally been one of the most poorly documented and underrated classifications of crime scenes. The chief reason for this lack of documentation has been the investigator's traditional reliance on sketchy notes and personal recollections when preparing official reports or describing the circumstances of the fire to a jury or other judicial body. Other reasons for the lack of the proper documentation include:
• Ignorance of proper crime-scene techniques • Lack of equipment (e.g., cameras, film) • Time constraints • Shortage of qualified personnel, and • Lack of motivation (e.g., laziness, poor attitude, apathy)
The fact that fire scenes are unique and their analysis time-consuming and sometimes arduous does not relieve the investigator of the responsibility to adhere to proper crime-scene techniques.
