FIRE INVESTIGATORSAFETY & EQUIPMENTInstructor Rich Musicant

Learning ObjectivesTo NEVER get injured or killedIdentify and understand common hazards associated with fire investigations. Identify and understand safe practices for fire investigations Identify equipment used for fire investigations

A word on SAFETYFire scenes by their nature are dangerous places. Fire investigators have a duty to themselves and to others who may be endangered at fire scenes to exercise due caution during their investigations.

Getting StartedAs in most endeavors, PROPER PRIOR PLANNING is the best way to avoid injuries. This includes:Knowing what youre getting intoHaving the proper equipment

Preparing for the InvestigationType and magnitude of fireStatus of incidentTime of day & weatherType of areaOther Hazards

PreparationNumber of investigatorsSafety equipmentToolsSpecial resourcesBased on initial information, you can begin to formulate a plan for the investigation

What would you bring?Number of investigatorsSafety equipmentToolsSpecial resources0230 hrs mid February, residential fire, contained to bedroom, fire damage to one room, smoke and heat damage throughout.

What would you bring?Number of investigatorsSafety equipmentToolsSpecial resources1900 hrs May 10th, fire in a 2 story manufacturing plant, heavy fire smoke and heat damage throughout structure, reported explosions of 55 gal drums.

What would you bring?Number of investigatorsSafety equipmentToolsSpecial resources0100 hrs November 12, fatal fire, 1 victim, 2 story residential with attached garage, heavy fire damage to entire structure.

Basic Safety EquipmentWhenever you go on a fire investigation you should have the following basic safety items readily available.Identification- Badge and/or ID card- Accountability tag

Basic Safety EquipmentProtective over-garment- Nomex or tyvek coveralls- Turnout gear- Overcoat / raincoat

Basic Safety EquipmentGloves- Latex gloves- Work glovesALWAYS try to avoid touching anything on a fire scene with your bare hands.

Basic Safety EquipmentFootwear- Work boots- Rubber bootsEye protection- Goggles- Safety glasses

Basic Safety EquipmentHead Protection (Brain bucket)- Fire helmet- Plastic hard hatPortable lighting- Flashlight- Spotlights

Basic Safety EquipmentCommunications- Radio- Cell phonePersonal sidearm (police investigators)

Advanced Safety EquipmentSome fire scenes require more advanced safety equipment for completing investigations. This equipment may not always be readily available

Advanced Safety EquipmentAir monitoring devices- Personal gas detectors- Multi gas metersLock out / tag out kitsLife lines

Advanced Safety EquipmentRespiratory Protection- Particle mask- Respirator- Powered air purifying respirator- Self Contained Breathing Apparatus

Advanced Safety EquipmentHazardous Materials Ensemble- Level A- Level B- Level C- Level DIf you are using this gear, you need decon resources in place BEFORE you start your investigation.

Advanced Safety EquipmentHazardous Materials EnsembleIf you find that you need any ensemble above level D , ask yourself how important it is to be in there for an investigation.

Reporting to the sceneResponding to the fire scene is similar to an emergency response, but generally not as time sensitive. When driving, you should always take care to arrive safely.Make sure your vehicles are positioned so they dont block other vehicles at the fire scene

Reporting to the sceneUpon arrival notify the incident commander and accountability officer when required.

If fire units have cleared the scene before you arrive, make sure someone knows where you are and what you are doing.

Scene size upBefore you begin an investigation, you should assess the scene for potential hazards.

There are many factors to consider before any investigators should enter the structure

Scene size upAssessing the scene- Utilities secured- Structural stability- Air monitoring- Stage of the incident

Safety IssuesThe fireground typically has many substances which may be hazardous to your health. These substances may enter the body one of the following ways:IngestionInhalationInjectionAbsorption

Safety IssuesAs an investigator you will come into contact with any number of these substances that could be harmful to you. Its important to limit your exposure as much as possible.Pyrolized materialsAccelerantsContaminated water run-off

Safety IssuesBody substance isolationHand washingEquipment decon- Latex gloves- Protective clothing

Safety IssuesSlip and fallEnvironmental- Wet surfaces- Ice- Heat stress- Hypothermia / frostbite- Structural defects

Safety IssuesWhat lies beneathNailsBroken glassSplintered woodOther sharp metalWho knows what else ???

Safety IssuesFatigueDepending on the circumstances, fire investigations may be a prolonged operation. Be aware that fatigue may set in and effect your physical and mental abilities.

10 Rules for Investigator Safety1. Know what youre getting into 2. The only life hazard at a fire investigation is the one YOU create for yourself. 3. Theres no reason to rush The fire wont unburn4. Know where youre stepping

10 Rules for Investigator Safety5. Know what youre cutting and what its connected to6. If youre using tools, know how to use them properly7. If you get hurt and theres nobody that knows about it, youre still hurt.8. Know what youre touching

10 Rules for Investigator Safety9. If you didnt personally see the utilities secured, consider them HOT.10. There is NOTHING in there worth your life.

Tools

ToolsA variety of tools may be required to complete your fire investigation. It is important for you as the investigator to know what you will need to complete the job.

ToolsShovelBroomRakeThe big three

ToolsThe little three

Tools

ToolsGetting to the bottom of things

Take care of your tools !!!As in most professions, you must take proper care of your tools. Its important not only to use them properly, but also to maintain them and store them with care.

Tool care and maintenanceMaintaining your fire investigation tools is especially important due to the hazard of cross-contamination. Its also a health hazard to let some substances acquire in your vehicle or storage areas

Dirty GearIsolate dirty or contaminated tools and gear from the clean equipment.

Tool care and maintenanceClean your tools after each use so you dont cross contaminate fire scenes or evidence. Avoid putting tools away dirty !!!

Tool cleaningClean your tools with a mild detergent in a clean environment. Allow them to dry properly and prevent rust from forming.

Tool storageKeep your tools in a safe clean place free of contaminants. Whenever possible you should keep your tools under lock and key.

Tool safetyIts especially important to know the proper use of your tools and how to use them safely. If youre unsure how to use a certain tool, be sure to get instruction and practice if you can.

Other toolsA small toolbox may be helpful during investigations.

Scene documentation

Scene documentation

Photo equipmentDigital camera

Photo equipment35 mm camera

Evidence collection

Evidence collectionAbsorption materials

Thank you !For your patience and your attentionQuestionsCommentsConcerns