In the case where a fire incident occurs, there are a number of steps to be taken in accordance with the law (NIJ, 2009). It is true and agreeable as stated by my colleague that the first responders, who in this case are the law enforcement officials and fire department organizations, should determine the cause of the fire. As indicated in the post, they, however, have to undertake a number of steps. They are supposed to be the first viewers of the scene and must document things such as the presence and location of any victims if any, and as well as the first-hand witnesses on the scene (NIJ, 2009). They should keep a record of any vehicles that leave the scene, the people that are around the building on fire as well as any other unusual happenings noted (NIJ, 2009). It is also their duty to record information in regard to the condition of the flames and smoke.
Moreover, they are also supposed to indicate the type of building or structure, and the condition it is in (NIJ, 2009). Any noted unusual or unexpected structural conditions should also be recorded. The weather condition also needs to be recorded as it has a direct influence on how the course the fire takes. Once the investigator arrives at the scene, they first of all need to see the one in charge of the operation and identify themselves (NIJ, 2009). They then receive a debriefing on the situation after which the commander leads them to talk to the witnesses and first responders (NIJ, 2009). This includes the first individual to report the fire. They also identify the owners of the affected structure, the last personnel seen leaving the same structure before the fire and record the statements (NIJ, 2009). The post is thus based on the rightful and legal steps required for an arson investigation.
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References
National Institute of Justice (NIJ) (2009). A guide for investigating fire and arson: arriving at the fire and/or arson scene . Retrieved on 13 June 2017 from https://www.nij.gov/topics/law-enforcement/investigations/crime-scene/guides/fire-arson/pages/arrive.aspx#.
