MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION1 | Page CHAPTER I BASIC CONCEPTS OF FIRE

FIRE BEHAVIOR Effective fire control and extinguishment requires a basic understandingof the chemical
and physical nature of fire. This includes information describingsources of heat energy, composition and
characteristics of fuels, andenvironmental conditions necessary to sustain the combustion process.
BASIC CONCEPTS OF FIRE TECHNOLOGY Fire had been produced by TWO PRINCIPAL METHODS: In the
friction method,raises the temperature of a combustible material (kindling) to ignition temperature. The
percussion method produces a spark toset akindling fire. friction method Percussion
methodIMPORTANT PERSONALITIES AND THEIR INVENTIONS: 1. JOHN WALKER- He was the English
Pharmacist who invented thefirst match in 1827. The tip of this match was coated a mixture of antimony
sulfideand potassium chlorate that was held on the wooden matchstick by gumArabic and Starch. 2.
ANTOINE LAVOISIER- a French Chemist who proved in 1777 that burning is the result of the rapid union
of oxygen with other substances. As substances burn, heat and light are produced. MODULE FIRE
TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION2 | Page 3. THOMAS ALVA EDISON- an American inventor
whowas able to send an elective current through a carbonfilament (wire) until the filament became so
hot that it gave off light. THE CHEMISTRY OF FIRE FIRE is the heat and light that comes from burning
substances producedbythecombustion of substances. - A rapid, self-sustaining oxidation process
accompanied by the evolutionof heat and light of varying intensity. - An active chemical reaction that
takes place between fuel, heat andoxygen in the form of light and noticeable heat. - A chemical reaction;
the rapid oxidation of a fuel producing heat andlight - An oxidation taking place with a rate rapid enough
to produce heat andlight. ANATOMY OF FIRE Combustion is the self-sustaining process of rapid oxidation
of a fuel beingreduced by an oxidizing agent along with the evolution of heat and light. Firesaredefined
by their physical characteristics. They may vary from very slowoxidation, as in rusting, to very fast
oxidation, such as detonations andexplosions. Somewhere between these extremes are the two most
commonreactions concerning firefighters: smoldering fires and flaming or free-burningfires. TRIANGLE
OF FIRE  For many years, the fire triangle (oxygen, fuel and heat) was taught asthecomponents of fire.
While this simple example is useful, it is NOTtechnically correct. ELEMENTS OF FIRE OR TRIANGLE OF
FIRE FUEL - anything that will burn when heated with sufficient oxygen OXYGEN - aids in combustion;
comes from the atmosphere we breathe; theatmosphere contains: 21% oxygen, 78% nitrogen and
1%impurities MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION3 | Page HEAT- source of ignition
TETRAHEDRON OF FIRE - a geometric representation of what is required for fire to exist, namely, fuel, an
oxidizing agent, heat, and an uninhibited chemical reaction FIRE TETRAHEDRON  Each component of
the tetrahedron must be in place for combustion to occur. Remove one of the four components and
combustion will not occur.  If ignition has already occurred, the fire is extinguished when one of the
components is removed from the reaction. FUELS (Combustible Materials) - is the material or substance
being oxidizedor burned in the combustion process.  In scientific terms, the fuel in a combustion
reaction is known asthe“reducing agent”.  Most common fuels contain carbon along with combinations
of hydrogenand oxygen. Fuel sources SOLID LOI (LIMITING OXYGEN INDEX)  It is a numerical basis of
measuring the tendency of a fabricto MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION4 | Page
continuously burn once source of ignition is removed.  If the LOI of a fabric is high, the probability that
it will cease toburnonce the flame is removed is also high. Fabrics with high LOI andhighignition
temperature are safer for clothing and furnishing becausetheydo not ignite easily.  Also, they will not
continue burning after the source of heat or flameisremoved. LIQUID Two (2) general groups of Liquid
Fuels: FLASH POINT < 37.8O C (100 O F) FLASH POINT > 37.8OC(100OF) FLASH POINT  The lowest
temperature at which a substance gives off vapor that burns momentarily (when a flame or spark is
applied). OXYGEN (Oxidizing Agent) a colorless, odorless gas and one of the compositions of air
whichisapproximately 21% percent by volume. - Oxygen sources: Oxygen requirements: 1. 21% of
normal oxygen 1. 12% no fire 2. 78% nitrogen 2. 14% flash point 3. 1% other gases 3. 21% fire point
HEAT  the energy component of the fire tetrahedron  when heat comes into contact with a fuel, the
energy supportsthecombustion reaction MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION5 |
Page  heat energy is measured in units of Joules (J), however it can alsobemeasured in Calories (1
Calorie = 4.184 J) and BTU's (1 BTU= 1055J) Latent and sensible heat are types of energy released or
absorbed in the atmosphere. Latent heat is related to changes in phase between liquids, gases, and
solids. Sensible heat is related to changes in temperature of a gas or object with no change in phase.
TEMPERATURE  a measure of the degree of molecular activity of a material compared to a reference
point  measured in degrees Farenheit or degrees Celsius  When the temperature of a substance is very
high, it releases highlycombustible vapors known as FREE RADICALS.  Auto-ignition point or SELF-
IGNITION POINT is the lowest temperatureat which a substance can be heated to release vapors that
will ignite without the application of a flame or spark. It refers to the temperature at whichspontaneous
combustion take place. Auto-ignition point is usually muchhigher (in temperature) than the fire point .
MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION6 | Page SELF-SUSTAINED CHEMICAL
REACTION Combustion is a complex reaction that requires a fuel (in the gaseous or vapor state), an
oxidizer, and heat energy to come together in a very specific way. Once flaming combustion or fire
occurs, it canonly continue when enough heat energy is producedto cause the continued development
of fuel vapors or gases. Scientists call this type of reaction a “chainreaction”. A chain reaction is a series
of reactions that occur in sequence with the result of each individual reaction being added to the rest

MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION1 | Page CHAPTER II SOURCES OF HEAT AND
STAGES OF FIRE Heat is a form of energy that may be described as a condition of matter inmotion
caused by the movement of molecules.  All matter contains some heat regardless of how low the
temperatureisbecause molecules are constantly moving all the time  When a body of matter is heated,
the speed of the moleculesincreases, thus the temperature increases.  Anything that sets the
molecules of a material in motion produces heat in that material. Types of Energy 1. Chemical Energy 2.
Electrical Energy 3. Nuclear Energy 4. Mechanical Energy CHEMICAL ENERGY - The most common source
of heat in combustion reactions. MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION2 | Page
When any combustible is in contact with oxygen, oxidationoccurs. The reaction of this process results in
the production of heat. Ex: Heat generated from burning match, self-heating (spontaneous heating)
ELECTRICAL ENERGY - can generate temperature high enough to ignite any combustible material near
the heated area Examples: 1. over current or overload 2. arcing 3. sparking 4. static 5. lightning NUCLEAR
ENERGY - generated when atoms either split apart (fission) or combine (fusion) Ex.1. fission heats water
to drive steam turbines and produce electricity 2. solar energy is a product of a fusion reaction
MECHANICAL ENERGY - an energy created by friction and compression 1) Heat of friction - the
movement of two surfaces against each other, thusproducing sparks 2) Heat of compression - heat is
generated when a gas is compressedinacontainer or cylinder FIRE DEVELOPMENT When the four
components of the fire tetrahedron come together, ignitionoccurs. For a fire to grow beyond the first
material ignited, heat must betransmitted beyond the first material to additional fuel packages. Stages
of Fire - Ignition - Growth MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION3 | Page - Flashover -
Fully-developed - Decay IGNITION/INCIPIENT - It describes the period when the four elements of the fire
tetrahedroncome together and combustion begins. GROWTH - Shortly after ignition, a fire plume begins
to form above the burningfuel. As the plume develops, it begins to draw or entrain air
fromthesurrounding space into the column. FLASHOVER The transition between the growth and the fully
developedfirestages and is not a specific event such as ignition. FULLY-DEVELOPED - It occurs when all
combustible materials in the compartment are involvedin the fire. MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND
ARSON INVESTIGATION4 | Page DECAY - As the fire consumes the available fuel in the compartment, the
rateof heat released begins to decline. THREE (3) STAGES OF FIRE 1. Incipient phase 2. Free burning
phase 3. Smoldering 1. INCIPIENT STAGE - It is initial stage of fire. Characteristics - normal room
temperature - oxygen plentiful - thermal updraft rise accumulates at higher point - temperature at 1000
F - Producing C02, CO, SO2, water and other gases 2. FREE BURNING PHASE - It is a phase of burning in
which materials or structures are burningin the presence of adequate oxygen. Characteristics - fire has
involved more fuel - oxygen supply has depleted - heat accumulates at upper area - temperature
exceeds 1,330 F - area is fully involved 3. SMOLDERING PHASE - final phase of burning wherein flame
ceases but dense smokeandheat completely fill the confined room MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND
ARSON INVESTIGATION5 | Page - During FLASHOVER, conditions in the compartment - change very
rapidly as the fire changes from one that is dominated by the burning of the materials first ignited to
onethat involves all of the exposed combustible surfaces withinthe compartment.

MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION1 | Page CHAPTER III MODES OF HEAT
TRANSFER AND PROPERTIES OF FIREHeat is by-product of combustion that is of significant
importancetothefirefighter. It is heat that causes fire to sustain its combustion and, moreimportant, to
extend. When heat given off as a product of combustion is exposedto an unheated substance, certain
changes occur that can make thenewsubstance a contributing factor in extending a fire. MODES OF
HEAT: CONDUCTION - Heat transfer within solids or between contacting solids.  When a hot object
transfers its heat, conduction has takenplace. The transfer could be to another object or to another
portionof thesame object. As we have discovered and will be constantlyreinforced about, combustion
occurs on the molecular level. When MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION2 | Page
an object heats up, the atoms become agitated and begin tocollidewith one another. A chain reaction of
molecules and atoms, likewave energy, occurs and causes the agitated molecules topassthe heat energy
to areas of non-heat. CONVECTION - Heat transfer by the movement of liquids or gasses.  Air that is
hotter than its surroundings rises. Air that is cooler thanits surroundings sinks. Air is made up of many
molecules floatingabout freely. Even so, it still has weight. Some molecules aremadeup of the same
element. For example, oxygen in its natural statewill combine with another oxygen atom to forma stable
oxygenmolecule. In a given volume, air at a given temperature will havethe same density. When heated,
as in conduction theory, themolecules become agitated and begin to collide with one another. In the
process, the molecules are demanding more spacetoaccommodate the vibrations and they push into
one another asthey seek that space. When that happens, the density of agivenvolume is reduced and it
weighs less. Because it weighs less, it rises until it reaches equilibrium-the level at which the weight
isthesame as the surrounding atmosphere. RADIATION - Heat transfer by electromagnetic waves.  The
last form of heat transfer occurs by radiation. As wehavealready seen, heat energy can be transmitted
directly whenmolecules collide with one another and cause the waves of heat energy to travel.
PROPERTIES OF FIRE 1. Physical properties 2. Chemical Properties 1. PHYSICAL PROPERTIES a. Specific
gravity MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION3 | Page - The ratio of the weight of a
solid or substance to the weight of anequal volume of water. b. Vapor density - The weight of volume of
pure gas compared to weight of a volumeof dry air at the same temperature and pressure. c. Vapor
pressure - The force exerted by the molecules on the surface of the liquidat the equilibrium. d.
Temperature - The measure of the thermal degree of the agitation of moleculesof a given substance; the
measure of the molecular activity withinthesubstance. e. Boiling Point - The constant temperature at
which the vapor pressure of theliquidis equal to the atmospheric pressure. f. Ignition temperature - The
minimum temperature to which the substance in the air must be heated in order to initiate or cause
self-contained combustionwithout addition of heat from outside sources. g. Fire point - The temperature
at which the material will give off ample vaporstokeep burning. h. Flash point - The temperature at
which the material is not hot enough tokeepburning, but still gives off enough vapors to cause a flame
acrossthe surface. 2. CHEMICAL PROPERTIES a. Endothermic reaction - These are changes whereby
energy is absorbed or is addedbeforethe reaction takes place. b. Exothermic reaction MODULE FIRE
TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION4 | Page - A reactions or changes that releases or give off
energy. c. Oxidation - A chemical change in which combustible material and an oxidizingmaterial react.
d. Combustion or flame - The manifestation of fire is in its gas-phased combustion; matter that is
produced by fire.

MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION1 | Page CHAPTER IV FLAME AND THE
BEHAVIOR OF FIRE FLAME it is the matter produced by fire. It is composed of burning incandescent
gases. It is the manifestation of fire when the fire in its gas-phased combustion. FLAME CONTACT - heat
may be conducted from one body to another by direct flame contact Types of Flames: According to color
and completeness of combustion: LUMINOUS FLAME- REDDISH-ORANGE in color; it deposits soot
because it is a product of incomplete combustion; it has lower temperature. NON-LUMINOUS FLAME-
BLUISH in color; it does not deposit soot because it is a product of complete combustion; it has a higher
temperature than luminous flame. • According to Burning Fuel and Air Mixture: • PREMIXED FLAME-
e.g.: flame of a Bunsen burner • DIFFUSION FLAME- e.g. flame of oxyacetylene torch • (Diffused-
dispersed; widely spread) MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION2 | Page
HYDROCARBON- anysubstance containingprimarily carbonandhydrogen Based on Smoothness:
LAMINAR FLAME- smooth flame TURBULENT FLAME- rough flame NATURE OF FIRE Pyrolysis  It refers
to the chemical process whereby fire consumes the most solidpart of the fuel.  It is the chemical
decomposition of a solid fuel through the action of heat. Dangerous/ fatal behavior of fire: Backdraft  If
room is not properly ventilated, highly flammable vapors maybeaccumulated such that when a door or a
windowis suddenlyopened, the room violently sucks the oxygen and simultaneously, asudden
combustion may occur which may happen as an explosion(combustion explosion). FLASHOVER It is the
sudden burning of accumulated free radicals, which is initiatedbyaspark/flash produced when
temperature rises until flash point is reached.  When accumulated volume of radical gases suddenly
burn, therewill be a very intense fire that is capable of causing flames tojumpat a certain distance in the
form of FIREBALLS. Fireballs cantravel MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION3 | Page
to a hundred yards with in a few seconds. BITEBACK is a fatal condition that takes place when the fire
resiststheextinguishment operation and becomes stronger and bigger instead. FLASHFIRE is better
known as dust explosion.  This may happen when a metal post that is completely coveredwithdust is
going to be hit by lightning. The dust particles coveringthemetal burn simultaneously thus creating a
violent chemical reactionthat produces a very bright flash followed by an explosion. Explosion is a
violent effect of chemical reaction when combustion processisconfined so that appreciable pressure
occurs. Detonation is a violent reaction beginning with a very simple ignition that initiatesa chain
reaction; a rapid and confined combustion process that produces energywaves that propagates
(spreads) in supersonic (very fast) speed; energy wavesdevelop into “shock front” that results to a very
strong explosion BACKDRAFT VS. FLASHOVER It is the sudden and rapid (violent) burning of heated gases
in a confined area that occurs in the form of explosion. It occur because of improper ventilation. It is the
sudden ignitionof accumulated radical gases produced whenthere is incompletecombustion of fuels.

MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION1 | Page CHAPTER X BFP Organization and
Functions RA 6975 - created the BFP. Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) - administersandenforces the fire
code of the Philippines. The Fire Bureau shall have the power to investigate all causes of firesand, if
necessary, file the proper complaints with the city or provincial prosecutor whohas jurisdiction over the
case. BFP Powers/Functions 1. Preventions and suppression of all destructive fires on a. buildings b.
houses c. other structure d. forest e. land transportation vehicles f. ships/vessels g. petroleum industry
installations h. plane crashes and similar incidents 2. Enforcement of the Fire Code of the Philippines 3.
Investigate all causes of fire 4. File proper complaints with the prosecutors office NOTE: Vessel/Ship
must be docked at piers or wharves or anchored inmajor MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON
INVESTIGATION2 | Page seaport. BFP Organization  Headed by a Chief who shall be assisted by a
Deputy Chief.  It shall composed of a Provincial, District, City and Municipal stations.  In large
provinces, district offices may be established to be headedbyadistrict Fire Marshall.  In large cities and
municipalities, district offices may be establishedwithsubordinate fire stations headed by a district Fire
Marshall.  There shall be at least one fire station in every provincial, capital, cityandmunicipality.  The
local government unit shall provide the site of the fire station. BFP Key Positions Key Positions -
Qualifications 1. Municipal Fire Marshal - should have the rank of Senior Inspector. o Must have finished
at least 2nd year Bachelor of Laws or earnedat least 12 units in a masters degree program in public
administration, management, engineering, public safety, criminology or other related discipline. o Must
have satisfactory passed the necessary training of career KEY POSITIONS RANK Chief of the Fire Bureau
Director Deputy Chief of the Fire Bureau Chief Superintendent Asst. Regional Director for Fire Protection
Senior Superintendent District Fire Marshall of NCR District Offices Senior Superintendent Provincial Fire
Marshall Superintendent District Fire Marshall of Province Chief Inspector Chief of City/Municipal Fire
Station Senior Inspector MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION3 | Page courses for
such position as may be established by the fire bureau. 2. City Fire Marshal - should have the rank of
Chief Inspector. o Must have finished at least 2nd year Bachelor of Laws or earnedat least 24 units in a
masters degree program in public administration, management, engineering, public safety, criminology
or other related disciplines. o Must have satisfactory passed the necessary training or career courses for
such position as may be established by the fire bureau. 3. District Fire Marshal /Provincial Fire Marshal/
Assistant Regional Directorfor Administration/ Assistant Regional Director for Operations/ Chief of
Directorial Staff - should have the rank of Superintendent. o Must be a graduate of Bachelor of Laws or a
holder of a Mastersdegree in public administration, management, engineering, publicsafety,
criminology, or other related disciplines. o Must have satisfactory passed the necessary training or
career courses for such position as may be established by the fire bureau. 4. District Fire marshal for the
NCR /Regional Director for FireProtection/Director of the Directorate of the National Headquarters
Office- should have at least the rank of Senior Superintendent. o Must be a graduate of Bachelor of Laws
or a holder of mastersdegree in public administration, management, engineering, publicsafety,
criminology, or other related disciplines. o Must have satisfactory passed the necessary training or
career course for such position as may be established by the fire bureau. 5. Deputy Chief for
Administration and Deputy Chief for Operationof theFire Bureau - should have the rank of Chief
superintendent. o Must be a member of the Philippine Bar or must be a holder of amasters degree in
public administration, management, engineering, public safety, criminology or other related disciplines.
o Must have satisfactory passed the necessary training or career courses as may be established by the
fire bureau. MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION4 | Page 6. Chief of the Fire
Bureau - should have the rank of Director. o Must be a member of the Philippine Bar or a masters
degreeinpublic administration, management, engineering, public safety, criminology or other related
discipline. o b. Must satisfactory passed the necessary the training or career courses for such position as
may be established by the fire bureau. Republic Act No. 9514 - Approved on December 19, 2008 -
Repealed PD 1185 - known as the "Revised Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008". Definition of terms
Abatement - Any act that would remove or neutralize a fire hazard. Administrator - Any person who acts
as agent of the owner and manages theuseof a building for him. Blasting Agent - Any material or mixture
consisting of a fuel and oxidizer usedtoset off explosives. Cellulose Nitrate Or Nitro Cellulose - A highly
combustible and explosivecompound produced by the reaction of nitric acid with a cellulose material.
Cellulose Nitrate Plastic (Pyroxylin) - Any plastic substance, materialsor compound having cellulose
nitrate (nitro cellulose) as base. Combustible, Flammable or Inflammable - Descriptive of materials that
areeasilyset on fire. Combustible Fiber - Any readily ignitable and free burning fiber such as cotton,
oakum, rags, waste cloth, waste paper, kapok, hay, straw, Spanish moss, excelsior and other similar
materials commonly used in commerce. Combustible Liquid - Any liquid having a flash point at or above
37.8_C(100_F). Corrosive Liquid - Any liquid which causes fire when in contact with organicmatter or
with certain chemicals. Curtain Board - A vertical panel of non-combustible or fire resistive
materialsattached to and extending below the bottom chord of the roof trusses, todividethe underside
of the roof into separate compartments so that heat and smokewill MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND
ARSON INVESTIGATION5 | Page be directed upwards to a roof vent. Cryogenic - Descriptive of any
material which by its nature or as a result of itsreaction with other elements produces a rapid drop in
temperature of theimmediate surroundings. Damper - A normally open device installed inside an air
duct systemwhichautomatically closes to restrict the passage of smoke or fire. Distillation - The process
of first raising the temperature in separate themorevolatile from the less volatile parts and then cooling
and condensing the resultingvapor so as to produce a nearly purified substance. Duct System - A
continuous passageway for the transmission of air. Dust - A finely powdered substance which, when
mixed with air in the proper proportion and ignited will cause an explosion. Electrical Arc - An extremely
hot luminous bridge formed by passageof anelectric current across a space between two conductors or
terminals duetotheincandescence of the conducting vapor. Ember - A hot piece or lump that remains
after a material has partially burned, and is still oxidizing without the manifestation of flames. Fire Trap -
A building unsafe in case of fire because it will burn easily or becauseit lacks adequate exits or fire
escapes. Fire Alarm - Any visual or audible signal produced by a device or systemtowarmthe occupants
of the building or firefighting elements of the presence or danger of fire to enable them to undertake
immediate action to save life and property andtosuppress the fire. MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND
ARSON INVESTIGATION6 | Page Fire Door - A fire resistive door prescribed for openings in fire
separation wallsor partitions. Fire Hazard - Any condition or act which increases or may cause an
increaseinthe probability of the occurrence of fire, or which may obstruct, delay, hinder or interfere with
firefighting operations and the safeguarding of life and property. Fire Lane - The portion of a roadway or
public way that should be kept openedand unobstructed at all times for the expedient operation of
firefighting units. Fire Protective And Fire Safety Device - Any device intended for the protectionof
buildings or persons to include but not limited to built-in protection systemsuchas sprinklers and other
automatic extinguishing system, detectors for heat, smoke and combustion products and other warning
systemcomponents, personal protective equipment such as fire blankets, helmets, fire suits, glovesand
other garments that may be put on or worn by persons to protect themselvesduring fire. Fire Safety
Constructions - Refers to design and installation of walls, barriers, doors, windows, vents, means of
egress, etc. integral to and incorporatedintoabuilding or structure in order to minimize danger to life
from fire, smoke, fumesor panic before the building is evacuated. These features are also
designedtoachieve, among others, safe and rapid evacuation of people through meansof egress sealed
from smoke or fire, the confinement of fire or smoke in the roomor floor of origin and delay their spread
to other parts of the building by meansof smoke sealed and fire resistant doors, walls and floors. It shall
also meantoinclude the treatment of buildings components or contents with flame retardant chemicals.
Hazardous Operation/Process - Any act of manufacturing, fabrication, conversion, etc., that uses or
produces materials which are likely to cause fires or explosions. Industrial Baking And Drying - The
industrial process of subjecting materialstoheat for the purpose of removing solvents or moisture from
the same, and/or tofuse certain chemical salts to form a uniform glazing the surface of materialsbeing
treated. MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION7 | Page Jumper - A piece of metal or
an electrical conductor used to bypass asafetydevice in an electrical system. Occupancy - The purpose
for which a building or portion thereof is usedor intended to be used. Occupant - Any person actually
occupying and using a building or portionsthereof by virtue of a lease contract with the owner or
administrator or bypermission or sufferance of the latter. Pressurized Or Forced Draft Burning
Equipment - Type or burner where thefuel is subjected to pressure prior to discharge into the
combustion chamber and/or which includes fans or other provisions for the introduction of air at above
normal atmosphere pressure into the same combustion chamber. Public Assembly Building - Any
building or structure where fifty (50) or morepeople congregate, gather, or assemble for any purpose.
Public Way - Any street, alley or other strip of land unobstructed fromthe groundto the sky, deeded,
dedicated or otherwise permanently appropriated for publicuse. Refining - A process where impurities
and/or deleterious materials are removedfrom a mixture in order to produce a pure element of
compound. It shall alsorefer to partial distillation and electrolysis. Self-Closing Doors - Automatic closing
doors that are designed to confine smokeand heat and delay the spread of fire. Sprinkler System - An
integrated network of hydraulically designed pipinginstalled in a building, structure or area with outlets
arranged in a systematicpattern which automatically discharges water when activated by heat or
combustion products from a fire. MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION8 | Page
Standpipe System - A system of vertical pipes in a building to which firehosescan be attached on each
floor, including a system by which water is madeavailable to the outlets as needed. Vestibule - A passage
hall or antechamber between the outer doors andtheinterior parts of a house or building. Vertical Shaft
- An enclosed vertical space of passage that extends fromfloor tofloor, as well as from the base to the
top of the building.

MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION1 | Page CHAPTER IX Motives of Arson Motive
 Motive is the moving cause which induces a person to commit a crime. Is Motive Necessary to be
proven in Criminal Proceedings?  No. motive is not necessary to be proven in criminal proceedings but
oncemotive is shown, then intent can easily established.  In the crime of arson, the distinction
between motive and intent is clearlydefined.  INTENT is a material element of arson while motive is
not. INTENTisthepurpose of design with which the act is done and involves the will whileMOTIVE is what
induces the criminal. Motive Can Be Established By: I. Economic Gain A. Insurance fraud with the
assured directly benefiting: 1. Desire to move – the premises may no longer be desirable because of the
conditionof the building, the fact that the quarters are outgrown or becauseof the locality. 2. Disposing
of Merchandise – the stocks on hand may have lost value by reason of the seasonal nature of the
business, obsolesce, scarcity of materials necessaryto complete the contracts, overstock in the absence
of expectedorder or a changing market. 3. Property Transaction – the business itself may no longer be
desirable becauseof impending liquidation, settlement of an estate of which it is apart, MODULE FIRE
TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION2 | Page the need for cash, prospective failure, the
comparatively greater value of the land, or the comparatively greater value of theinsurance benefits. B.
Profit by the Perpetrator other than the assured: 1. Insurance agents wishing business 2. Insurance
adjusters desiring to adjust a loss by securing a contract 3. Business competitors 4. Persons seeking jobs
as protection personnel 5. Salvagers 6. Contractors wishing to rebuild or wreck Concealment of Crime: 
The arsonists may set fire to a building in order to conceal aprojected or past crime. He may wish to
divert attention in order toloot the burning premises or steal in other places. The burningmaybe for the
purpose of destroying evidences. Punitive Measure: - An arsonists may use fire as a means of punishing
another personfor reason of jealousy, hatred or revenge. Intimidation or Economic Disabling: - The fire
may be used as a weapon of the saboteurs, the strikers or theracketeers to intimidate or to disable
economically as a step towardforcing submission to certain demands. Pyromania – is the uncontrollable
impulse of a person toburnanything without motivation. Pyromaniacs usually do not runaway from the
scene of the crime, usually alone andfeel satisfied watching the flame MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND
ARSON INVESTIGATION3 | Page Types of Pyromaniacs: 1. Abnormal Youth – Epileptics, imbeciles and
morons may set fire without knowing the seriousness of the act. 2. The Hero Type – a person may set
fire on a building, subsequentlypretends to discover it and turn in the alarm so that he will appear
aheroto the public. A person may burn a building and endeavor to achievespectacular rescue in order to
attract the attention of spectators. 3. Alcoholics and Drug Addicts – persons who subject themselves to
intenseartificial stimulants such as narcotics sometimes develop a strongurgetoward incendiaries. 4.
Sexual Deviates – some sex perverts derive sexual stimulationfromsetting a fire and watching the flame.
Frequently, he is chronicmasturbator who stimulates and enhances his sexual gratificationbymeans of
arson. Public Disturbance - an offender may resort to arson as a means of a public disturbancebecause a
fire attracts people and destruction causes confusion that givesrise to attendant problems that divert
police attention. Vandalism – It is a general term denoting intentional burning to destroy properties. In
determining motive, a fire investigator concentrates on three majorfactors: 1. Points of origin of the fire
2. Modus operandi of the arsonist 3. Identify of persons who might benefits from the fire. Incendiary
Materials - materials used to start a fire; combustible fuels 1. Arson Chemicals (liquids) – are incendiary
materials often usedbyarsonists as accelerants. Possess excellent properties. Examples: alcohol,
benzene, petroleum ether, gasoline, kerosene, naptha, turpentine. 2. Gases as acetylene, butane, CO,
ethylene, hydrogen, natural gas, MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION4 | Page
propane, these are common gases resulting in fires fromexplosion. Thesewhen mix with air possess
excellent in ignition properties andwhenpresent in an enclosed area can lead to explosion. 3. Solids as
chlorates, perchlorates, chromates, bichromates, nitrates, permanganates – are typical families of
oxidizing agents which giveoff oxygen on decomposition thus aiding in combustion.

MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION1 | Page CHAPTER VIII ARSON INVESTIGATIVE
GUIDE AND PROCEDURES ARSON - It is the willful and malicious burning of all kinds of buildings and
structuresincluding personal properties. INVESTIGATION - It is an art that deals with the identity and
location of the offender andprovides evidence of his guilt in criminal proceedings ELEMENTS OF ARSON
1. Actual burning took place 2. Actual burning is done with malicious intent 3. The actual burning is done
by person(s) legally and criminally liable LAW AND JURISPRUDENCE The law on arson in the Philippines is
covered by Articles 320 to 326of the Revised Penal Code, as amended by PD No. 1613, PD No. 1744,
andSec. 50 Rule VIII IRR of RA 6975 which provides that the Bureau of Fire Protection(BFP) shall have the
power to investigate all causes of fires and, if necessary, filethe proper complaint with the
City/Provincial prosecutor who has jurisdictionover arson cases. LAWS ON ARSON 1. Article 320 – 326 of
the Revised Penal Code - defines arson, its forms and penalties 2. PD 1613 – the law amending the law
on arson - defining the prima facie evidence of arson 3. RA 7659 - An Act to Impose Death Penalty on
Certain Heinous Crimes, MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION2 | Page amending for
that purpose the Revised Penal Code as amended, other special laws, and for other purposes 4. RA 6975
Sec. 54 - provides that the Fire Bureau shall have the power to investigateall causes of fires and if
necessary file the proper complaint withtheCity/Provincial Prosecutor who has jurisdiction over the case
What Constitutes Arson? 1. Burning 2. Willfulness – means intentional and implies that the act was
donepurposely and intentionally 3. Malice – denotes hatred or ill will or a desire for revenge;
deliberateintention of doing unjustified harm for the satisfaction of doing it 4. Motive – the moving
cause which induces the commission of acrime; something that leads or influences a person to do
something 5. Intent – the purpose or design with which the act is done and involvesthewill; an essential
element of crime, motive is not Why is arson very hard to investigate? Arson is one of the most difficult
offenses to investigate becausethearsonist can be able to set a fire and escape undetected. The fire can
consumethe scene and destroy much physical evidence of the offense. Harder formsof evidence are
often buried in debris and grossly altered in appearance. What Constitutes Burning?  The mere fact
that a building is scorched or discolored by heat isnot sufficient nor will bare intention or even an
attempt to burn a houseamount to arson, if no part of it is burned.  Yet, if there is actual ignition of
any part of the building, arson is committed, although there be no flame or the fire immediately goes
out of itself.  To burn means to consume by fire and in the case of arson, if the woodisblackened but
no fibers are wasted, there is no burning, yet thewoodneed not be in flame or blaze, and the burning of
any part, however, small is sufficient to constitute arson, and if the house is charred in asingle MODULE
FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION3 | Page place so as to destroy the fibers of the wood, it
is sufficient to constitutearson. What is Attempted Arson?  In attempted arson, it is not necessary that
there be a fire before thecrimeis committed. No hard and fast rule is laid down by the lawas
totherequirements for attempted arson. The peculiar facts and circumstancesof a particular case should
carry more weight in the decision of thecase. Thus, a person intending to burn a wooden structure,
collects somerags, soaks them in gasoline and places them beside the wooden wall of thebuilding. When
he is about to light a match to set fire to the rags, heisdiscovered by another who chases him away. 
The crime committed is attempted arson, because the offender beginsthecommission of the crime
directly by overacts (placing the rags soakedingasoline beside the wooden wall of the building and
lighting a match) but he does not perform all the acts of execution (the setting of the firetotherags) due
to the timely intervention of another who chases away) theoffender. What is Frustrated Arson?  In
frustrated arson, the fact of having set fire to some rags and jutesackssoaked in kerosene oil and placed
near the partition of the entire soil of aninhabited house, should not be qualified as a consummated
arson, inasmuch as no part of the house had begun to burn, although fire wouldhavestarted in the said
partition had it not been extinguished on time. Thecrime committed was frustrated arson. What is
Consummated Arson?  The offender did in fact set fire to the roof of the house and saidhousewas
partially burned. The crime was consummated arson, notwithstandingthe fact that the fire afterwards
extinguished for once it has been started, the consummation of the crime of arson does not depend
upon theextent of the damage caused.  Setting fire to the contents of a building constitutes the
consummated MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION4 | Page crime of setting fire to
a building even if no part of the building was burned. Basis of Liability in Arson: 1. Kind and character of
the building, whether of public or private ownership. 2. Its location, whether in an uninhabited place or
in a populated place. 3. Extent of damage caused; and 4. The fact of its being inhabited or not. Some of
the Arson Evidence that the Investigator should seek at theFirescene are the following: 1. Unusually
rapid spread of the fire. 2. Where it originated? 3. Separate fires – when two or more separate fires
break-out withinabuilding, the fire is certainly suspicious. 4. Unusual odors – the odor of gasoline,
alcohol, kerosene andother inflammable liquids are indicated by their characteristics and oftentimes,
arsonists are trapped because of this tell-tale signs. 5. Objects that appear to be foreign to the scene
such as cans, candles, matches, explosives, electrical appliances such as irons, heating elements, clocks,
radios, flammables, trailers, etc. 6. Evidence of forcible entry or lack of same may be important
dependingonthe circumstances at the time of the fire. If the investigator determinesthere was no
forcible entry and finds that the building was secured prior todiscovery of the fire, he can reasonably
suspect there is possibility that theperson who sets the fire entered the building with a key. Doors
andwindows showing signs of forced entry may point to arson precededbyburglary or arson by someone
without a key to the premises. MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION5 | Page 
Charring pattern may indicate fire characteristics. Thefact that the fire feeds on combustible
whilepropagating itself, indicates that the char will generallybe deepest from where the fire originates. 
When a fire is extinguished quickly, the charringisonly slightly below the surface. Fire burning for alonger
period of time will indicate a char that is deepand pronounced. These facts are most apparent
inthecharring of wood as a fire burns. The charring fromfireon woods looks like the hide of a black
alligator.  Fire extinguished quickly on wood will showa largealligatoring pattern that has not penetrate
the woodtoany extent. Fire burning for a long period of timeonwood will show small alligatoring pattern
but thechar will go deep into the wood.  The direction of fire can also be taken intoconsideration with
charring. The exposed sideof combustible will have a deeper char thantheunexposed side.

MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION1 | Page CHAPTER V CLASSIFICATIONS OF FIRE
Enumerate the classification of fire Explain the causes of fire I. BASED ON CAUSE a. Natural fire/
providential b. Accidental fire c. Intentional Fire/Incendiary d. Undetermined A. NATURAL FIRE - It
involves fires without direct human intervention. Examples: - Earthquake - Typhoon - Lightning
Spontaneous combustion arising from the storage of combustiblematerials in poorly ventilated places -
Example:  Explosion from petroleum products, alcohol andother substances.  Sun rays focused on
glasses which may serve as a convexlens B. ACCIDENTAL FIRE - Carelessly discarded cigarettes - Careless
disposition of readily combustible materials - Poorly managed or defective heating facilities -
Overheating, spark and electrical defects MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION2 |
Page - Overload electric circuits/ Octopus connections - Children playing matches - Use of candles •
Electrical Accidents • Short-circuit – unusual or accidental connection between two points at different
potentials (charge) in an electrical circuit or relatively low resistance. • Arcing- production of sustained
luminous electrical discharge between separate electrodes; an electrical hazard that results when
electrical current crosses the gap between 2 electrical conductors. • Sparking- production of
incandescent particles when two different potentials (Charged conductors) come in contact; occurs
duringshort- circuits or welding operations. • Induced current – induced line surge – increase of
electrical energy flowor power voltage; induced current; sudden increase of electrical current resulting
to the burning of insulating materials, exploding of the fuse-box, or burning of active electrical
appliances. • Overheating of electrical appliances- increase or rising of amperagewhileelectric current is
flowing in a transmission line resulting to the damageor destruction of insulating materials; maybe
gradual or rapid; internal or external. C. INCENDIARY FIRE - It is one deliberately set under circumstances
in which the person knows that the fire should not be set. D. UNDETERMINED FIRE CAUSE - Whenever
the cause cannot be proven, the proper classificationisundetermined. MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND
ARSON INVESTIGATION3 | Page II. BASED ON BURNING FUEL CLASS A - An ordinary solid materials such
as wood, paper, fabrics, etc. - this will be indicated by deep cited fire, leaves ashes and embers
(glowingcoals) after burning CLASS B - A flammable liquids such as gasoline, lube oil, kerosene, paint
thinner, etc. CLASS C - An electrical appliances; causes electric shock. CLASS D - metal fire such as
magnesium (white element burning with dazzlinglight), sodium (a silver white metallic element), etc.;
creates violent reactionCLASS E flammable gases such as LPG, LNG, etc.; also creates violent reaction
MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION4 | Page

MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION1 | Page CHAPTER VI A FIRE EXTINGUISHER,
flame extinguisher, or simply an extinguisher, isanactive fire protection device used to extinguish or
control small fires, ofteninemergency situations.  It is not intended for use on an out-of-control fire,
such as onewhichhas reached the ceiling, endangers the user (i.e., no escaperoute, smoke, explosion
hazard, etc.), or otherwise requires the expertiseof afire department.  Typically, a fire extinguisher
consists of a hand-held cylindrical pressure vessel containing an agent which can be
dischargedtoextinguish a fire. HOW TO USE A FIRE EXTINGUISHER? You can remember the
acronymPASS, which stands for Pull, Aim, Squeeze, and Sweep.  PULL THE PIN MODULE FIRE
TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION2 | Page This will allow you to discharge the extinguisher. 
AIM AT THE BASE OF THE FIRE If you aim at the flames (which is frequently the temptation), the
extinguishingagent will fly right through and do no good. You want to hit the fuel.  SQUEEZE THE TOP
HANDLE OR LEVER This depresses a button that releases the pressurized extinguishing agent
intheextinguisher.  SWEEP FROM SIDE TO SIDE Start using the extinguisher from a safe distance away,
then move forward. Oncethe fire is out, keep an eye on the area in case it re-ignites. EXTINGUISHING
AGENT 1. Class A – water (all agents) 2. Class B – foam/carbon dioxide (all agents) 3. Class C – carbon
dioxide/powder (never use water, soda acid and foam) 4. Class D – special powder 5. Class E – all agents
Types of Fire Extinguishers Water and Foam  Water and Foam fire extinguishers extinguishthe fire by
taking away the heat element of thefire triangle.  Foam agents also separate the oxygen element from
the other elements.  Water extinguishers are for Class A fires only- they should not be used on Class B
or Cfires.  The discharge stream could spread theflammable liquid in a Class B fire or could createa
shock hazard on a Class C fire. MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION3 | Page Carbon
Dioxide  Carbon Dioxide fire extinguishers extinguishfire by taking away the oxygen element of
thefiretriangle  and also be removing the heat with a very colddischarge.  Carbon dioxide can be used
on Class B&Cfires.  They are usually ineffective on Class A fires. Dry Chemical  Dry Chemical fire
extinguishers extinguishthefireprimarily by interrupting the chemical reactionof the fire triangle. 
Today's most widely used type of fireextinguisher is the multipurpose dry chemical that is effective on
Class A, B, and C fires.  This agent also works by creating a barrier between the oxygen element andthe
fuel element on Class A fires. Dry Powder  Dry Powder extinguishers are similar todrychemical except
that they extinguish the firebyseparating the fuel from the oxygen element or byremoving the heat
element of the fire triangle.  However, dry powder extinguishers are for ClassDor combustible metal
fires, only. They are ineffectiveon all other classes of fires. MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON
INVESTIGATION4 | Page Wet Chemical  Wet Chemical is a new agent that extinguishesthefire by
removing the heat of the fire triangleandprevents re-ignition by creating a barrier betweenthe oxygen
and fuel elements.  Wet chemical of Class K extinguishers weredeveloped for modern, high efficiency
deep fat fryersin commercial cooking operations. Some may alsobe used on Class A fires in commercial
kitchens. Clean Agent  Halogenated or Clean Agent extinguishers include the halon agents as well as
the newer and less ozone depleting halocarbon agents. They extinguish the fire by interrupting the
chemical reaction and/or removing heat fromthe fire triangle.  Clean agent extinguishers are effective
on Class A, B and C fires. Smaller sized handheld extinguishers are not large enough to obtain a 1A rating
and may carry only a Class B and C rating. MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION5 |
Page Water Mist  Water Mist extinguishers are a recent development that extinguish the fire by
takingaway the heat element of the fire triangle. Theyare an alternative to the clean agent
extinguisherswhere contamination is a concern.  Water mist extinguishers are primarily for ClassAfires,
although they are safe for use on ClassCfires as well. Cartridge Operated Dry Chemical  Cartridge
Operated Dry Chemical fireextinguishers extinguish the fire primarilyby interrupting the chemical
reactionof the fire triangle.  Like the stored pressure dry chemical extinguishers, the multipurpose
drychemical is effective on Class A, B, andCfires. This agent also works by creatingabarrier between the
oxygen element andthe fuel element on Class A fires.  Ordinary dry chemical is for Class B&Cfires only.
It is important to use the correct extinguisher for the type of fuel! Using theincorrect agent can allow the
fire to reignite after apparently being extinguishedsuccessfully. MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON
INVESTIGATION6 | Page

MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION1 | Page

CHAPTER VII

METHODS OF EXTINGUISHMENT AND TYPES OF LADDERMETHODS OF EXTINGUISHMENT

1. COOLING – heat absorption. 2. SEPARATION – the removal of the fuel. 3. SMOTHERING – by expelling
oxygen

4. Inhibition or the interruption of chemical chain reaction

MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION2 | Page

Strategies Used in Firefighting:

1. Locate the fire

2. Confine the fire

3. Extinguish the fire

4. Exposures

Factors to Consider in Extinguishment:

1. Time

2. Weather (temperature, humidity, wind)

3. Fire ( ex. Extent, location, bldg construction, contents involved)

4. Occupancy

5. Ventilation (used for clearing the bldg of smoke and gases)

Types of Ventilation:

a. Vertical ventilation - must be worked from the top to bottomb. Cross or horizontal ventilation - used if
gases have not reached thehigher

level through the opening of windows

c. Mechanical force ventilation - a method whereby a device such as smokeejector is utilized to remove
faster excessive heat and dense smokeFactors to determine the location for the opening:

1. Location of intensity of fire

2. Highest point on the roof

3. Direction of wind

4. Existing exposure

5. Extent of fire

6. Obstruction

Types of Ladder

1. Ground ladders (10 to 55 ft. long)

2. Aerial ladders

Purposes of ladders

a. for rescue

b. to stretch line into a fire building

c. to provide ventilation by giving access to places that are hard to reach

MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION3 | Page

Forms of ground ladders

a. Wall

b. Extension

c. Hook or straight ladder

d. Attic ladder

LADDER TERMINOLOGY

1. Bed ladder - the lowest section of an extension ladder

2. Fly ladder - the top section of an extension ladder

3. Butt - the bottom end of a ladder

4. Heel - the part of the ladder that touches the ground

5. Halyard - a rope or cable used to raise the fly ladder

6. Pawl or dog - the mechanism located at the end of the fly ladder that locksto the bed ladder

7. Rung - the cross member of the ladder that is used for climbing

8. Top or tip - it is the top part of the ladder

9. Hooks - part of a ladder that is used to hook over

a roof peak, sills, or walls where the heel does

not rest on a foundation. (roof type ladders)

10.Stops - made of metal or wood blocks used to

prevent the fly of an extension ladder from

extending out further from the ladder

11.Guides - light metal strips of an extension ladder

that guides the fly ladder while it is being raised

or lowered

ADDITIONAL BASIC TACTICS USED IN EXTINGUISHING FIRE

1. RESCUE - any action taken by the firefighters to remove occupants/

persons from building/ hazards to a safety place

2. OVERHAUL - a complete and detailed checked of the structures andmaterials involved in the fire to
make sure that every spark and ember hasbeen extinguished and to have assurance against re-ignition

MODULE FIRE TECHNOLOGY AND ARSON INVESTIGATION4 | Page

3. SALVAGE - an action taken by the firefighters in preventing excessivedamage by fire, water with the
use of salvage cover or by removingmaterials out from the burning building