Republic Act 6975

Department of the Interior and Local Government Act of 1990

BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION

Section 53. Composition. — The Bureau of Fire Protection, hereinafter
referred to as the Fire Bureau, is hereby created initially consisting of the
existing officers and uniformed members of the fire service of the
Integrated National Police as constituted under Presidential Decree No.
765.
Section 54. Powers and Functions. — The Fire Bureau shall
be responsible for the prevention and suppression of all
destructive fires on buildings, houses and other structures,
forest, land transportation vehicles and equipment, ships or
vessels docked at piers or wharves or anchored in major
seaports, petroleum industry installations, plane crashes and
other similar incidents, as well as the enforcement of the Fire
Code and other related laws. The Fire Bureau shall have the
power to investigate all causes of fires and, if necessary, file
the proper complaints with the city or provincial prosecutor who
has jurisdiction over the case.
The investigator should study the victimology of the fire scene.
1. Who is the true victim - owner, insurance company, church, government, society?
Using checklists like the Arson Investigation Guide, witness and owner interviews,
prior criminal history, is a good start.

2. Ask "why did the offender choose this target"? Assess victim and offender risk.
What characteristics of the victim make it a target?

3. Offenders use rational criteria to select targets even when the fire setting behavior
makes no sense. The offender decides if the fire setting is "profitable" (meets his
needs) and the risk is acceptable.
 The Law on Arson
Presidential Decree Nr. 1613
Amending the Law on Arson
SECTION 1. Arson – Any person who burns or sets fire to the property
of another shall be punished by prision mayor one day to twelve years.
The same penalty shall be imposed when a person sets fire to his
own property under circumstances which expose to danger the life or
property of another.
 Presidential Decree Nr. 1613
Amending the Law on Arson
SECTION 2. Destructive Arson – The penalty of reclusion temporal in its maximum
period to reclusion Perpetua shall be imposed in the property burned is any of the
following:
a. Any ammunition factory and other establishment where explosives, inflammable or
combustible materials are stored;
b. Any archive, museum, whether public or private, or any edifice devoted to culture,
education or social services;
c. Any church or place of worship or other building where people usually assemble;
d. Any train, airplane of any aircraft, vessel, or watercraft, or conveyance for transportation of persons or
property;
SECTION 2. Destructive Arson – The penalty of reclusion temporal in
its maximum period to reclusion Perpetua shall be imposed in the
property burned is any of the following:
e. Any buildings where evidence is kept for use in any legislative, judicial, administrative or other official
proceedings;

f. Any hospital, hotel, dormitory, lodging house, housing tenement, shopping center, public or private market,
theater or movie house or any similar place or building; and

g. Any building, whether used as a dwelling or not, situated in a populated or congested area.
SECTION 3. Other Cases of Arson – The penalty of reclusion temporal
to reclusion Perpetua shall be imposed if the property burned is any of
the following:
a. Any building used as offices of the government or any of its agencies;
b. Any inhabited house or dwelling;
c. Any industrial establishment, shipyard, oil well or mine shaft, platform
or tunnel;
d. Any plantation, farm, pasture land, growing crops, grain field, orchard,
bamboo grove or forest;
e. Any rice mill, sugar mill, cane mill or mill central; and
f. Any railway or bus station, airport, wharf or warehouse.
SECTION 4. Special Aggravating Circumstances in Arson
The penalty in any case of arson shall be imposed in its maximum period:
a. If committed with intent to gain;
b. If committed for the benefit of another;
c. If the offender is motivated by spite or hatred towards the owner or
occupant of the property burned; and
d. If committed by a syndicate.
The offense is committed by a syndicate if it is planned or carried
out by a group of three (3) or more persons.
SECTION 5. Where Death Results From Arson – If by reason of or on
the occasion of arson death results, the penalty of reclusion perpetua to
death shall be imposed.
SECTION 6. Prima Facie Evidence of Arson – Any of the following
circumstances shall constitute prima facie evidence of arson:
a. If the fire started simultaneously in more than one part of the building
or establishment;
 SECTION 6. Prima Facie Evidence of Arson
b. If substantial amount of flammable substances or materials are stored within the
building not necessary in the business of the offender nor for household use;
c. If gasoline, kerosene, petroleum or other flammable or combustible substances or
materials soaked therewith or containers thereof, or any mechanical, electrical,
chemical, or electronic contrivance designed to start a fire, or ashes or traces of any
of the foregoing are found in the ruins or premises of the burned building or
property;
SECTION 6. Prima Facie Evidence of Arson

d. If the building or property is insured for substantially more than its

actual value at the time of the issuance of the policy;
e. If during the lifetime of the corresponding fire insurance policy more
than two fires have occurred in the same or other premises owned or
under the control of the offender and/or insured;
SECTION 6. Prima Facie Evidence of Arson
f. If shortly before the fire, a substantial portion of the effects insured and
stored in a building or property had been withdrawn from the premises except
in the ordinary course of business; and

g. If a demand for money or other valuable consideration was made before

the fire in exchange for the desistance of the offender or for the safety of the
person or property of the victim.
SECTION 8. Confiscation of Object of Arson – The
building which is the object of arson including the land on
which it is situated shall be confiscated and escheated to
the State, unless the owner thereof can prove that he has
no participation in nor knowledge of such arson despite the
exercise of due diligence in his part.
 Presidential Decree No. 1744

AMENDING ARTICLE THREE HUNDRED AND TWENTY OF

THE REVISED PENAL CODE PROVISIONS ON ARSON
Section 1. Article 320 of the Revised Penal Code shall read
as follows:
"Article 320 Destructive Arson. The penalty of reclusion
temporal 12 years and 1 day to 20 years in its maximum
period to death shall be imposed upon any person who shall
burn:
 Article 320 Destructive Arson

1. One (1) or more buildings or edifices, consequent to one

single act of burning, or as result of simultaneous burnings, or
committed on several or different occasions;
 Article 320 Destructive Arson
2. Any building of public or private ownership, devoted to the
use of the public in general, or where people usually gather
or congregated for a definite purpose such as but not limited
to official governmental function or business, private
transaction, commerce, trade, worship, meetings and
conferences, or merely incidental to a definite purpose such
as but not limited to hotels, motels, transient dwellings, public
conveyance or stops or terminals, regardless of whether the
offender had knowledge that there are persons in said
building or edifice at the time it is set on fire, and regardless
also of whether the building is actually inhabited or not.
 Article 320 Destructive Arson

3. Any train or locomotive, ship or vessel, airship or airplane,

devoted to transportation or convenience, or public use,
entertainment or leisure.
4. Any building, factory, warehouse installation and any
appurtenances thereto, which are devoted to the service of
public utilities.
5. Any building, the burning of which is for the purpose of
concealing or destroying evidence of another violation of law,
or for the purpose of concealing bankruptcy or defrauding
creditors or to collect from insurance.
 Article 320 Destructive Arson

Irrespective of the application of the above

enumerated qualifying circumstances, the penalty of death
shall likewise be imposed when the arson is perpetrated or
committed by two (2) or more persons or by a group of
persons, regardless of whether their purpose is merely to
burn or destroy the building or the edifice, or the burning
merely constitutes an overt act in the commission or
another violation of law.
 Article 320 Destructive Arson

The penalty of reclusion temporal in its maximum period to

death shall also be imposed upon any person who shall
burn:
(a) Any arsenal, shipyard, storehouse or military powder or
fireworks factory, ordinance storehouse, archives or general
museum of the government; and
(b) In an inhabited place, any storehouse or factory of
inflammable or explosive materials.
 Article 320 Destructive Arson

If as a consequence of the commission of any of

the acts penalized under this Article, death or injury results,
or any valuable documents, equipment, machineries,
apparatus, or other valuable properties were burned or
destroyed, the mandatory penalty of death shall be
imposed."
Section 2. Provisions of Articles 320, 321 and 322 of the
Revised Penal Code which are or may be inconsistent
herewith are hereby repealed.
 REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7659

AN ACT TO IMPOSE THE DEATH PENALTY ON CERTAIN HEINOUS CRIMES,

AMENDING FOR THAT PURPOSE THE REVISED PENAL LAWS, AS
AMENDED, OTHER SPECIAL PENAL LAWS, AND FOR OTHER PURPOSES

"Art. 320. Destructive Arson. - The penalty of reclusion Perpetua to death shall be
imposed upon any person who shall burn:
1. One (1) or more buildings or edifices, consequent to one single act of
burning, or as a result of simultaneous burnings, committed on several or different
occasions.
 REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7659

2. Any building of public or private ownership, devoted to the

public in general or where people usually gather or congregate for
a definite purpose such as, but not limited to, official
governmental function or business, private transaction,
commerce, trade, workshop, meetings and conferences, or
merely incidental to a definite purpose such as but not limited to
hotels, motels, transient dwellings, public conveyances or stops
or terminals, regardless of whether the offender had knowledge
that there are persons in said building or edifice at the time it is
set on fire and regardless also of whether the building is actually
inhabited or not.
 REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7659
3. Any train or locomotive, ship or vessel, airship or airplane, devoted
to transportation or conveyance, or for public use, entertainment or
leisure.
4. Any building, factory, warehouse installation and any appurtenances
thereto, which are devoted to the service of public utilities.
5. Any building the burning of which is for the purpose of concealing or
destroying evidence of another violation of law, or for the purpose of
concealing bankruptcy or defrauding creditors or to collect from insurance.
 REPUBLIC ACT NO. 7659
Irrespective of the application of the above enumerated qualifying
circumstances, the penalty of reclusion Perpetua to death shall likewise be imposed when
the arson is perpetrated or committed by two (2) or more persons or by a group of persons,
regardless of whether their purpose is merely to burn or destroy the building or the burning
merely constitutes an overt act in the commission or another violation of law.
The penalty of reclusion Perpetua to death shall also be imposed upon any person who
shall burn:
1. Any arsenal, shipyard, storehouse or military powder or fireworks factory, ordnance,
storehouse, archives or general museum of the Government; and
2. In an inhabited place, any storehouse or factory of inflammable or explosive materials.
If as a consequence of the commission of any of the acts penalized under this
Article, death results, the mandatory penalty of death shall be imposed."
 The Motives of Arson
1. Profit. This offense normally involves burning of one’s own property
to wrongfully collect (defraud) insurance money for the loss, by fire,
of the insured property.
a. Direct monetary gain includes
 Insurance Fraud
 Liquidating property
 Dissolving a business
 Destroying unprofitable inventory
 The Motives of Arson
2. Grudge and Spite Fires. An individual seeking to revenge a wrong, either
real or fancied, may attempt to injure or to cause hardship to the person who
caused the wrong. Because a fire may inflict both physical and financial injury, it
may be used as a medium for revenge;

3. Fires to Cause Public Disturbances. An offender may resort to arson as a

means of causing a public disturbance. A fire attracts people, is destructive,
causes confusion, and gives rise to attendant problems that divert police
attention;

4. Sabotage Fires. Arson is one of the saboteur’s most effective weapons;

 The Motives of Arson
5. Fires by Pyromaniacs. Because the pyromaniacs commit the crime
of arson to satisfy an overpowering impulse, he usually does not seek
any insurance indemnity or other material gain;
6. Fires by Vandals. Vandalism, as used in the discussion, is a general
term denoting intentional burning to destroy property.
a. This motive is sometimes called "malicious mischief" and helps
identify the type of offender - juveniles. REMEMBER however, mental
age and chronological age do not necessarily correspond.
b. May be the result of peer or group pressure.
c. Typical targets include schools, abandoned buildings and vegetation.
 The Motives of Arson
7. Fires to Conceal Other Crimes. A criminal may attempt to cover another crime
with a fire; he may reason that the burning will appear accidentally and will destroy
the evidence of the original crime. A murderer may burn both the scene and the
victim in the hope that the corpse will be destroyed or the cause of death obliterated.
A burglar may use fire to cover burglary.
8. Excitement. Nuisance type fires such as dumpsters, recycling bins, trash piles;
targets of opportunity; may escalate as fire setting no longer provides enough
excitement. Several types:
a. Thrills (most common excitement motive) - enjoys the turmoil created by fire
setting
b. Recognition (hero) - firefighter, police officer, security guard, employee
c. Attention - excited by idea everyone is looking for him
d. Sexual gratification - unusual and usually present with other motives
 The following are some common characteristic and
indicators of arson fires
1. Separate or Multiple Fires - Separate, non-related, simultaneous
burning fire, like fires in separate compartments of an automobile, or
separate parts of structures are good evidence of an arson fire.
2. The Candle - is not only an ignition unit, but also a delay device
which can be cut to a desired burning-time length.
3. Matches - are used as igniters in many simple incendiary devices.
Perhaps the simplest match device involves tying a bundle of matches
around a burning cigarette or inserting a burning cigarette into a book
of matches and then inserting any of these devices into a “set-up” of
flammable materials.
 The following are some common characteristic and
indicators of arson fires
4. Accelerant - Although most of the accelerant is consumed in the fire, as
mentioned previously, in many cases, strong indications of the use of an
accelerant can be found by physical examination of the fire scene.
In addition to saturating items with accelerants, the arsonist may
place buckets, can, bottles and other containers at the point of origin or at
other places on the premises. Rubber containers are commonly used to
hold accelerants because they can be used as a delay device and are also
consumed in the fire.
5. Electrical. Wiring systems, including telephone circuits, can be used as
a fire-setting tool. An electrical ignition device, such as an electric heating
coil in a bag of waste paper, can be activated by turning lights on, ringing a
doorbell or receipt of a telephone call. Some electrical appliances are used
6. Hot plates, iron and electric - barbecue starters can be
effectively utilized to directly ignite flammable objects placed on
them. Electric light bulbs wrapped in cloth or paper can be used
as a delay and ignition device in conjunction with “set-ups” or
accelerants and other combustible materials.
7. Clock or watch-delay devices - can be easily rigged. By
removing the minute hand, setting a small screw in the crystal
to a depth, it will contact the hour hand but not the watch face,
and using this screw and the main stem as the contact point to
complete the electrical circuit, the watch becomes a timing
delay mechanism with a 12-hour span.
8. Flying sparks - are given particular attention. An arsonist who has set a fire while
another fire is burning in the vicinity may state that it was caused by flying sparks
from the first fire. It must be borne in mind that flying sparks can start a new fire only
when they have sufficient ignition heat and strike combustible material.
The direction of the wind is of importance; openings in a building where a
subsequent burning occurs usually face the direction of the wind. The time element
may be of importance in determining whether a fire is of arson or is caused by
another fire.
9. The removal of contents from the building or vehicle before
the fire.
10. Broken or damaged sprinklers, hydrants and extinguishes.
11. Tied or chained fire doors and other impediments to
firefighting activities.
12. Damaged or disconnected fire alarms.
13. Gas jets turned on. Door of closets, cabinets, or files left
open so the fire can destroy records (open drawers and
cupboards may also indicate burglary).
14. Windows and doors covered over from the inside to
conceal the fire.
14. Entrances and aisles clogged with furniture and other large heavy
items, so arranged as to interfere with the work of fireman.

15. Unusual burning is another indicator of arson and may be a basis

in establishing the incendiary nature of a fire.
The following are common accidental causes of fires and
some background information:
1. Short Circuit, including improper voltage and low line capacity;
electric motors that have become overheated because of neglect in
their care, cleaning, oiling and other required maintenance and
pressing, soldering, and other electric irons that have been unattended
while in use;
 The electrical system of a building rarely causes a fire if the
installation is up to date and the fuses are working. Fires causes
through the electrical system may be due to overloading the
circuit, faulty contacts, sparks, carelessness or intentional acts.
 Wallreceptacles in the area where a fire started may reveal
evidence of multiple plug devices which accidentally permitted
overloading of the circuit.
 Extension cords can cause fires by increasing the length of a
circuit thus increasing the resistance on the line which in turn
cannot be handled by the light wire in the extension cord.
 Firescan start in electrical appliances, equipment or tool. In most
cases where an electric motor catches fire it is because of
bearings not being lubricated, faulty starting mechanism or
excessive dirt or lint in the motor.
 It is not uncommon in electrical fires for witness to see a brilliant
flash and actually hear a short circuit. The odor left in the air from
the arcing of electricity is also recognizable.
 Fires can start in electrical appliances, equipment or tool. In most
cases where an electric motor catches fire it is because of bearings
not being lubricated, faulty starting mechanism or excessive dirt or
lint in the motor.
 The following are common accidental causes of fires and some
background information:
2. Spontaneous Combustion, is a phenomenon in which a combustible material or
combination of materials generate or produces heat because of internal chemical
action (oxidation) and eventually ignites without any exposure to external sources of
fire, spark or abnormal heat.
 a. The factors contributing to spontaneous combustion are many and varied
depending on the material concerned. Generally, hot, humid weather and lack of
air circulation facilitate the internal generation of heat.
 b. Many substances have a tendency to spontaneous combustion when various
conditions operate to create or facilitate a dangerous condition. Coal dust, flour,
hay, grain, and other plant products; and porous materials such as rags, papers,
etc. soaked in oils are especially susceptible to spontaneous combustion.
 The following are common accidental causes of fires and some
background information:
3. Dried leaves, remember to clean the areas in and around your house regularly.
You should immediately dispose of dried leaves, wood shavings, and other items
that may easily catch fire.
4. LPG tanks, parents would always, always ask if the LPG tanks are turned off
after cooking, before going to bed, or leaving the house. Do not get annoyed when
reminded of this because LPG tanks are one of the most common causes of fire.
 Make sure the LPG tank you have at home is not defective and substandard.
Rusty and corroded tanks are potential hazards.
5. Flammable Liquids, leaving flammable liquids near a heat source can start a
fire. Solvents, paint thinners, adhesives, cleaning agents, and any other raw
materials should never be placed anywhere near high temperatures, and weak
ignition sources that may cause an electric spark.
 The following are common accidental causes of fires and some
background information:
6. Unattended stoves and ovens, almost every homeowner has been guilty of
leaving the stove or oven unattended. While we think that it is harmless to go to
another room for a minute or two, it may lead to accidents.
 To prevent kitchen fires, always keep combustibles like oven mitts, paper towels,
and dish rags away from heat sources. You should also pay close attention to
your cooking. (Read: no more quick TV breaks!)
7. Unattended candles, although candles can create a warm, cozy, and romantic
feel in the home, they can also be the cause of fires!
 For a safe space, keep your candles on a sturdy holder on an even surface. Make
sure that they are out of reach of children and pets and always blow them out
before leaving the room.
8. Children playing with fire, on that note, always keep your matches, lighters, and
torches in places that your children can't reach. Bored and curious kids might
inadvertently set things on fire.
 The following are common accidental causes of fires and some
background information
9. Careless smoking, if someone in your home smokes, always use
large and deep ashtrays. Clean the ashtrays regularly and place them
away from materials that burn easily. You should also check for
cigarette embers or butts that can cause furniture to burst into flames.
As an added safety measure, you may also prohibit smoking in the
bedroom.
10. Sparks, Sparks may originate from nearby fires, chimneys, etc.
11. Explosions, Explosions can cause or result from fires. Explosive
materials are readily available to the arsonist or saboteur. Likewise,
numerous explosive materials can be found in residences and military
organizations that can accidentally explode as a result of fire or
resulting in a fire.
 The following are common accidental causes of fires and some
background information
12. Action of the sun concentrated by a lens or concave mirror can
ignite combustible material.
13. Animals, Animals rarely cause fires because of their natural fear of
fire.
14. Miscellaneous Causes, besides the natural and accidental
causes of fires already mentioned, there are numerous causes that
can be included such as carelessness in careless handling and
storage of flammables, and fires resulting from the use of blow torch
welding apparatus, etc.
 The Role of Fire Arson Investigator
An arson investigator surveys the scene of a fire to determine if the
blaze was accidental or intentional. Arson investigators are called to the
scene of a fire when an intentional start is suspected. Arson investigation is
part of the more complex science of fire investigation. The job of an arson
investigator is to figure out whether or not a fire has been intentionally set.
Arson investigators gather evidence and conduct interviews
concerning fires. Since they usually arrive after the fire has been
extinguished, they need to ask detailed questions of witnesses and
firefighters in order to gather a picture of how the fire behaved and whether
anyone noticed anything unusual. They are often called to provide
testimony under oath concerning their methods for gathering evidence;
therefore, they must keep detailed notes on their investigations and file
formal reports.
I.
I. RECORDING
RECORDING
a. Photograph
a. Photograph
1. Crowd
1. Crowd
2. Vehicles
2. Vehicles
-- make
make and
and color
color
-- speedometer
speedometer reading
reading
-- key
key position
position
-- plate
plate number
number
3. Color
3. Color of
of Flames
Flames and
and Smoke
Smoke
b. Audio,
b. Audio, Video
Video Utilization
Utilization
c. Sketch
c. Sketch Preparation
Preparation
1. Rough
1. Rough Sketch
Sketch
2. Progression
2. Progression Sketch
Sketch
II. INFORMATION GATHERING

a.
a. Note
Note Characteristics
Characteristics of
of the
the Fire:
Fire:
1.
1. Rapidity
Rapidity of
of the
the spread
spread of
of flame.
flame.
2.
2. Color
Color of
of the
the Smoke
Smoke and
and Flames.
Flames.
3.
3. Identifiable
Identifiable Odors
Odors
4.
4. Area
Area of
of origin
origin
II. INFORMATION GATHERING
b.
b. Taking
Taking Notes
Notes on
on the
the Following:
Following:

1.
1. Unnatural
Unnatural state
state of
of the
the premises.
premises.
2.
2. Obstacle
Obstacle on
on entry
entry point.
point.
3.
3. Door
Door and
and window
window locked.
locked.
4.
4. Fire
Fire alarm
alarm or
or other
other fire
fire protection
protection

equipments
equipments disconnected/sabotage.
disconnected/sabotage.
5.
5. Artificial
Artificial drafts
drafts by
by making
making opening.
opening.
6.
6. Block
Block entrance.
entrance.
II. INFORMATION GATHERING
c. Interview and Elicitation

1. Witnesses - Discoverer of fire

2. Fire Victims
3. Responding Firefighter as to
area of origin.
4. Neighbors
- Outside the Involved Building
- Inside the Involved Building
2nd Phase of Fire Scene Investigation (Origin
Determination) FIRE ORIGIN DETERMINATION

Methods and Assessment

Detail Analysis of Observation Fire Pattern Vector Diagram

Information Analysis Analysis
Location of Area of Non-Communicating Fire Patterns and Their Burn Pattern Analysis
Origin Fires Interpretation

How Fire Detected Present Condition& Fire Pattern Depth-of-Char Grid

Location of Victim Development Diagram

Unusual Event Prior to Incendiary Devices Systematic Observation

Fire
Fire Cause Missing Items Consumption of
Material in Melting
Last Person seen prior Unusual Appearance&
to the fire Location
Trace Evidence
Discover
 2nd Phase of Fire Scene Investigation (Origin
Determination)
Detail Analysis of Information from Witnesses
 Location of Area of Origin
 How Fire Detected
 Unusual Event Prior to Fire
 Fire Cause
 Last Person seen prior to the fire
 2nd Phase of Fire Scene Investigation (Origin
Determination)
Observation Analysis
 Present Condition& Location of Victim
 Incendiary Devices
 Missing Items
 Unusual Appearance& Location
 Trace Evidence Discover
Fire Patterns and Their Interpretation
A fire pattern, also called a burn pattern, is the visible or measurable physical
changes or identifiable shapes formed by a fire effect or group of fire effects. Fire
effects are the changes in or on a material as a result of exposure to the fire.
The term ‘fire effects’ describes the artifacts left behind by many different
processes, including dehydration, melting, color changes, oxidation, charring, loss of
material, alloying, spalling, expansion and deformation, annealing, soot and smoke
deposition, and clean burn. Even damage to an electrical system can constitute a fire
pattern. Fire investigators are thus presented with a vast array of different patterns, all
of which require some level of understanding of how they are created and what they
mean.
Accurate interpretation of fire patterns can lead the fire investigator to the
correct origin of the fire, and hopefully, to the correct identification of the fire’s cause.
However, accurate interpretation is often an elusive goal
FIRE PATTERNS - are the visible or measurable physical
effects that remain after a fire. These include thermal effects on
materials, such as charring, oxidation, consumption of
combustibles, smoke and soot deposits, distortion, melting,
color changes, changes in the character of materials, structural
collapse, and other effects.
Fire Pattern Development - The damage created by the flame,
radiation, hot gases, and smoke creates patterns that
investigators use to locate the area or point of fire origin.
Systematic Observation - Observation of fire patterns begins on the
outside of the building, where the investigator conducts a 360° survey
of the building, taking note of areas where external fire and smoke
patterns are observed.
This will help the investigator determine where to look inside. The
investigator continues his systematic examination as he enters the
building, working from the area of least damage to the area of greatest
damage as reflected by the fire patterns inside. The areas farthest
away from the fire will be cleaner. As the investigator approaches the
fire area, smoke stains will appear on the upper walls and get lower or
descend as he gets closer to the room of fire origin. Flame patterns
may appear on the ceiling outside of the door.
 The Six Major Fire Patterns

1. Classic V
2. Inverted Cone also called inverted "V"
3. Clean Burn
4. Doughnut Burn
5. Ignitable Liquid Pour Pattern (Rundown Burn)
6. Trailers
1. Classic V - the fire starts at the top, goes half way to the bottom and then back up
to the top without burning the bottom. This type of fire is most common in house fires.
As a fire moves upwards on a vertical surface, it creates a distinct V pattern. The
most severe physical damage is usually found at the bottom of the V pattern.
Because this is likely the point of origin, investigators focus their investigation on this
area for evidence of accelerants or other possible causes of the fire
2. Inverted Cone also called inverted "V" - The triangular patterns wider at the
base than at the top. Inverted cone patterns are the result of relatively short-lived
fires which do not fully evolve into floor-to-ceiling name plumes or flame plumes that
are not restricted by ceilings. Since they often appear on non-combustible surfaces, it
was thought that they were caused by fast-burning fires. The correct analysis of such
patterns is that the burning was of short duration. Inverted cone patterns also have
been interpreted as proof of a liquid accelerant fire, but any fuel that produces flame
zones that do not become vertically restricted can produce such patterns
3. Clean Burn - The Clean burn occurs on non-combustible surfaces when the soot
and/or smoke deposits are burned off. Such clean burning is most commonly a result
of direct flame contact or intense radiant heat. Although such clean burns can
indicate intense heating, they do not, by themselves, necessarily indicate point of
origin.
4. Doughnut Burn When a liquid accelerant is poured on carpet and ignited, it tends
to create a circular ‘doughnut’ type pattern. After the fire has been extinguished,
evidence of accelerant is often found inside the ‘doughnut’ because the melted
carpet material in the doughnut interior protects the carpet padding (which is
saturated with fuel) from the effects of the fire
5. Ignitable Liquid Pour Pattern (Rundown Burn) Intense burn patterns are caused
by ignitable liquid hydrocarbon accelerants such as gasoline, kerosene, or diesel that
have high boiling points. When hydrocarbons burn, they tend to cause physical
damage and distinct dark-coloured patterns Accelerants with high vapour pressures,
such as alcohol, acetone, and paint thinner, tend to ‘flash and blacken’ surfaces.
Therefore, they cause less physical damage and more superficial scorching
6. Trailers In many incendiary fires, when fuels are intentionally distributed or
“trailed” from one area to another, the elongated patterns may be visible. Such fire
patterns, known as “TRAILERS,” can be found along floors to connect separate fire
sets, or up stairways to move fires from one floor or level within a structure to
another. Fuels used for trailers may be ignitable liquids, solids, or combinations of
these.
The Spalling
Spalling occurs when extreme temperatures weaken the surface of concrete,
masonry, or brick, causing it to chip, pit, and scar. This phenomenon is primarily
caused by rapid expansion (if heated) or contraction (if cooled) of the surface of the
concrete compared to the different rate of expansion of the underlying layers of the
material. Spalling can be recognized by distinct striated lines on the surface, with
chips, craters and broken pieces. Color changes can also be observed: light areas
where the top layer of material has burned away, exposing a clean underlying area,
and dark areas of soot deposits
Charring is a chemical process of incomplete combustion of certain
solids when subjected to high heat. The resulting residue matter is
called char. By the action of heat, charring removes hydrogen and
oxygen from the solid, so that the remaining char is composed
primarily of carbon.
ALLIGATORING
Large alligatoring should be considered an indication of the nearby
presence of an ignitable liquid. Slow fires produce relatively flat alligatoring.
The Reality: The burning of wood produces char in a pattern of cracks
which look like the scales on an alligators back
CHARRING WITHOUT USE OF LIQUID ACCELERANTS
The charring rate data that have commonly been used and cited in
various studies have been those obtained using standard fire-resistance
test furnaces for simulating a post-flashover fire exposure.

Figure 1 Hole burned through hardwood floor.

Figure 2 Floor burn-through in a Santa Ana Fire and subfloor Figure 03. Burn through of carpet and 12.7 mm Santa Ana Fire
underneath a mattress fire. Dept. fire test; no liquids were used plywood floor in a room
test involving no liquid and less than 4 min. of post flash over
burning.
 CHARRING DUE TO USE OF AN IGNITABLE LIQUID
If a liquid is poured onto a floor and ignited, the heat flux that is presented to the
floor material under the liquid is very small and is of brief duration.
If an ignitable liquid is poured on a wood floor, four outcomes are possible:

Figure 1. Char pattern from a 1 L gasoline pour onto floor Figure 2. Char pattern from an 0.6 L gasoline pour onto a wood
consisting of 25 mm maple floor atop two layers of 13 mm parquet floor
plywood.
Figure 3. Floor burn-through in USFA test Initiate by pouring Figure 4. Floor burn-through in USFA test initiated by
gasoline on floor; ample ventilation pouring gasoline on floor; limited ventilation.
 Search Record/Document Recognize/Identify Evidence Collection, Packaging
Method Evidence Prior to Evidence Transport
Collection

Strip Method Photograph Evidence Flagging Observe Standard Collection

Prior to Collection Requirements
(Wearing of Gloves)
Double Sketch & measure Marking Place Evidence to Suitable Containe
Method Evidence Location

Zone Method Audio & video Recognition Marking Tag, Seal & Mark
utilization
Wheel Method Note Taking Evidence Marking Prepare Evidence Chain of Custody Form

Spiral  Packaging
 Transmittal Letter
2 witness requirements
 ORGANIZATION AND BASIC STAGES IN SEARCH OPERATIONS
I. Preparation
A. Team Briefing
1. Materials requirement of involved member
2. Discussed search pattern use:
 strip
 double strip
 wheel
 spiral
 zone
3. Assignment / role of individual team members.
4. Set up command post
5. Organize communication with services auxiliary.
6. Coordination with other agencies.
II. Initiates Preliminary Survey
 Accomplished a cautious walk through the scene.
 Acquire preliminary photograph.
 Delineate extent of the search area.
 Determine personnel and equipment needs.
 Identify and protect transient physical evidence.
 Develop general theory of the crime.
 Record vehicles identification number, key position and odometer reading.
 Concentrate on most transient evidence and work to the least transient form of
physical evidence.
 Focus first on the easily accessible areas in open view and progress eventually to
possible outer view locations, look for a purposively hidden items.
 Consider whether the evidence appears to have been moved inadvertently.
 Evaluate whether or not the scene and evidence appears unintentionally contrived.
II. Initiates Preliminary Survey
 Concentrate on most transient evidence and work to the least transient
form of physical evidence.
 Focus first on the easily accessible areas in open view and progress
eventually to possible outer view locations, look for a purposively hidden
items.
 Consider whether the evidence appears to have been moved
inadvertently.
 Evaluate whether or not the scene and evidence appears unintentionally
contrived.
Two basic search approaches:
1. "Cautious" search of visible areas, taking steps to avoid evidence loss or
contamination; and
2. After the "cautious “search, a vigorous search for hidden concealed areas.
III. Depict Scene Photographically
 Begin photography as soon as possible.
 Document the photographic effort with a photographic logbook.
 Insure that a progression of overall, medium and close-up view of the scene is
establish.
 Use recognize scale device for size determination when applicable.
 When scale device is used first take photograph without the inclusion of the device.
 Photograph evidence in place before its collection and packaging.
 Be observant on photographs areas adjacent to the crime scene – points of entry,
exits, and windows.
 Photograph items, places, etc. to collaborate the statement of witnesses, victims, and
suspects
 Prepares photographic sketch and photo logbook.
 Do not hesitate to photograph something which has no apparent significant at that
time, it may later prove to be a key element in the investigation.
IV. Prepare Sketch of the Scene
The diagram establishes permanent record of items condition and distance/ size
relationship - diagram photographs.
V. Collect and Preserve Evidence
a. Collect evidence in accordance with standard practice.
b. Use specialized search patterns (strip, double strip, zone, wheel)
c. Photograph all items before collection and enter notation in photographic logbook.
d. Mark evidence location in diagram sketch.
e. Have at least 2 persons:
 See evidence in place before collection;
 Observe it being collected;
 Tag zeal evidence;
 Place identifying marks on evidence container and document the proceeding by
photograph.
V. Collect and Preserve Evidence
f. Do not handle evidence excessively after recovery.
g. If feasible, have one person as an evidence custodian to prepare evidence chain
of custody, and evidence log.
h. Seal all evidence containers at the crime scene.
i. The best container for physical evidence such as debris with possible flammable
accelerants is clean can, or jar and thus, evidence plastic container can do.
j. Do not forget entrance/ exit areas at the scene to obtain appropriate and
substantial known standards.
k. Do not over document the physical evidence.
VI. Conduct Final Survey
a. This survey is a critical review of all aspects of the search.
b. Double check documentation to detect inadvertent errors.
c. Insure that photographs are taken of scene showing final condition
after completion of search.
d. Check to insure all evidence is accounted for before departing scene.
e. Release of the fire scene is accomplished only after completion of the
final survey.
f. Secure affidavit that no looting/ lost cause by responding firefighters.
4th Phase Fire Cause Determination
The systematic approach recommended of the scientific method, which is used in the physical
sciences.
This method provides for the organizational and analytical process so desirable and necessary
in a successful fire investigation. The scientific method is a principal of inquiry that forms a basis for
legitimate scientific and engineering processes, including fire incident investigation.
The scientific method is applied using the following seven steps.

Define the Problem

Collect Data

Analyze the Data (Inductive Reasoning)

Develop a Hypothesis

Test the Hypothesis (Deductive Reasoning)

Select Final Hypothesis (Determine Cause)

a. Recognize the need (identify the problem)
First, one should determine that a problem exists. In this case a fire or
explosion has occurred and the cause should be determined and listed
so that future, similar incidents can be prevented.
b. Define the Problem
Having determined that a problem exists, the investigator or analyst
should define in what manner the problem can be solved. In this case, a
proper origin and cause investigation should be conducted.
This is done by an examination of the scene and by a combination of
other data collection methods, such as the review of previously
conducted investigations of the incident, the interviewing of witnesses or
other knowledgeable persons, and the results of scientific testing.
c. Collect Data
Facts about the fire incident are now collected. This is done by observation,
experiment, or other direct data gathering means. This is called empirical data
because it is based on observation or experience and is capable of being verified.
d. Analyze the Data (Inductive Reasoning)
All of the collected and observed information is analyzed by inductive reasoning.
This is the process in which the total body of empirical data collected is carefully
examined in the light of the investigator’s knowledge, training, and experience.
Subjective or speculative information cannot be included in the analysis, only facts
that can be clearly proven by observation or experiment.
e. Develop a Hypothesis
Based on the data analysis, the investigator should now produce a hypothesis or
group of hypotheses to explain the origin and cause of the fire or explosion incident.
This hypothesis should be based solely on the empirical data that the investigator has
collected.
f. Test the Hypothesis (Deductive Reasoning)
All other reasonable origins and causes should be eliminated. The investigator
does not have a truly provable hypothesis unless it can stand the test of careful and
serious challenge.
This is done by the principle of deductive reasoning, in which the investigator
compares his or her hypothesis to all known facts. If the hypothesis cannot withstand
an examination by deductive reasoning, it should be discarded as not provable and a
new hypothesis tested.
Presumption of Cause
Until data have been collected, no specific hypothesis can be reasonably
formed or treated. All fires, however, should be approached by the investigator w/o
presumption.
g. Select final hypothesis (determine cause)