Automobile Fire Investigation: Tips For Fire Investigators. S.D. Lyons, Inc. Seekonk, MA: 1998.

Abstract: The design of automobiles has greatly changed in the last decade. The industry has incorporated new materials into the development of cars to produce lighter automobiles that conserve fuel. Manufacturers build their cars using plastics, composites, and alloys. The electrical systems have also improved, making use of computer technology. Today, a fire investigator skilled in the area of fire science should consider hiring a mechanic to assist in the investigation. A mechanic will have specific knowledge of the electrical system, the exhaust system, and the fuel system.

Fire investigators should rely on the same principles used during a structure fire. Vehicle fires are only different from structures in the types of materials burned and size. This article provides a list of hints fire investigator should keep in mind when examining a vehicle fire. They range in topic from determining the origin of the fire to the specific cause of the fire. Fraud related issues are also discussed.

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S D Lyons Inc
204 New Britain Rd.
Berlin, CT 06037-1354
Phone: (860)223-4477