Henning, Larry G., et al. Handling a Questionable Residential Fire. Insurance Committee For Arson Control. Phoenix, Arizona. January, 1995.

Abstract: This article provides 39 scenarios that a fire investigator may encounter at a residential fire scene. The authors examine each scenario and offer suggestions of how to proceed when confronted with each situation. The scenarios deal with a variety of subjects including arrival on the scene, interviewing, and obtaining information.

When arriving at a fire scene, an investigator is faced with immediate decisions. The scenarios offer suggestions if the investigator is faced with an unsecured scene, or a disorganized scene. Signs indicating that a cause and origin expert or an electrical engineer is required are listed. How to interview witnesses and insurance company representatives are discussed. Investigators should not delay contacting insurance companies to wait for investigation results. Insurance companies should be contacted immediately to begin the process of obtaining information. The article also explains how to request financial and other forms of information.

For more information, contact:
Insurance Committee for Arson Control
3601 Vincennes Rd.
Indianapolis, IN 46268
Phone: 317-876-6226
Web Site: www.arsoncontrol.org