NCJ Number
126201
Date Published
1990
Length
173 pages
Annotation
This manual is intended as a reference for use by arson investigators at a fire scene and while conducting the followup investigations designed to determine a fire's cause and origin.
Abstract
An overview explains the role of the National Response Team of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms; the forensic and technical support provided by the Bureau; and Federal laws relating to arson. Further sections explain the initial procedures to use at the scene of a fire, the investigative techniques to use; and additional procedures to use when a fatality has occurred. Further sections focus on the role of outside experts; questions to ask the person who discovered the fire and the first firefighters who arrived at the fire; and questions for the owner or occupant of the building, witnesses, and neighbors. A discussion of insurance issues covers the documentation available from insurance companies; regulations covering unfair claim settlements; arson immunity; and questions to ask the insurance claims adjuster, the insurance investigator, and the insurance agent or broker. Further sections explain the documentation available from financial and real estate agencies; questions to ask their staff; and sources of information at the municipal, county, State, and Federal levels and from other sources. Glossary.