Fire Scene Examination:
Discuss the following terms and how they are used in a fire scene investigation:
The ‘Backwards Theory’:
The "Backwards Theory" provides a methodical investigative approach for finding the origin and
causation of a fire, ensuring that the entire occupancy is probed. This is therefore, from the outside
to the inside, and from the least damaged to the most extensively damaged areas, a reverse inquiry
is carried out. It is important to examine the entire area surrounding the fire scene, including
locations where there was no fire damage. As well as taking note of the heat flow direction, the
lowest point of burning, overhead damage, and fire patterns such as "V" patterns, glass, char, and
demarcation lines etc. Chapter 4 FIRE SCENE INVESTIGATION. (n.d.) (2022)
Determining the Point of Origin:
To determine the point of origin, thorough external inspection of the vessel is required. Examining
the smoke/soot damage and outside fire or heat patterns. Distinctive patterns on the hull plating will
assist to identify the greatest region of the fire as well as pinpointing the fire's low point, which is
frequently the location of origin. It is also important whilst investigation to look for flammable liquid
containers or items that might have been used to transfer liquid accelerants to the site on the
outdoor decks. In the fire zone, it is vital to record the condition of the doors, windows, and locks or
even fire doors that have been left open, obstructed, or closed. In undamaged locations adjacent to
the fire, inspection of the general condition and degree of housekeeping will also be
beneficial. Chapter 4 FIRE SCENE INVESTIGATION. (n.d.) (2022)
Reconstruction of the Fire Scene:
Chapter 4 FIRE SCENE INVESTIGATION. (n.d.) (2022)
The act of determining the site of origin and rebuilding the fire scene is known as reconstruction.
Replacing doors/ furniture and correspond furniture posts with floor markings. During the inspection
procedure, fire scene reconstruction can be used everywhere. The processes of scene investigation
and reconstruction are intertwined.
Interviews with firefighters, owners, crew members, ships commanders, and other witnesses are
used to validate the fire indications during reconstruction. At the time of their initial entry, fire
suppression workers can submit information regarding the state of doors and the circumstances in
the fire area.
They can offer information on suppression methods, such as if there were any strange scents, how
the fire responded to water application, whether they saw, heard, or discovered any devices, the
position of the fire at the time of their arrival, and so on. The individual(s) who found the fire, as well
as representatives of the owner, residents, bystanders, police officers, contractors, and emergency
medical staff, must all be interrogated. Each scenario should then be compared; differences in time
of discovery will arise. Witnesses will see the fire at various phases and from various positions,
resulting in differences in their reports of what they saw.
Overall, the purpose of the interview should be to learn about the circumstances surrounding the
fire, as well as information about records, inventories, valuables, keys, electrical service, personnel
history, and so on. Chapter 4 FIRE SCENE INVESTIGATION. (n.d.) (2022)
Determine the cause of fire:
