Fire investigation

[2] Investigations of such incidents require a systematic approach and knowledge of fire science.

The difficulty of determining whether arson has occurred arises because fire often destroys the key evidence of its origin.

Many fires are caused by defective equipment, such as shorting of faulty electrical circuits.

[3][4] Car fires can be caused by faulty fuel lines, and spontaneous combustion is possible where organic wastes are stored.

Forensic scientists use technologies to heat samples taken from the scene causing any residue to separate.

Specialist laboratories play an important role in increasing fire safety knowledge.

Investigators then document any evidence seen at the crime scene or on the victims (clothes, burns, etc.)

Principal among these is a 16-point list of areas in which a fire investigator is required to have education beyond high school level.

Both also require an application process detailing the investigator's education, training, and experience, and successfully challenging a written examination.