Fire Investigation Research Articles

Fire incident reports contain detailed textual narratives that capture causal factors often overlooked in structured records, while financial damage amounts provide measurable outcomes of these events. Integrating these two sources of information is essential for uncovering interpretable links between descriptive causes and their economic consequences. To this end, we develop a data-driven framework that constructs a composite Risk Index, enabling systematic quantification of how specific keywords relate to property damage amounts. This index facilitates both the identification of high-impact terms and the aggregation of risks across semantically related clusters, thereby offering a principled measure of fire-related financial risk. Using more than a decade of Korean fire investigation reports on the chemical industry classified as Special Buildings (2013–2024), we employ topic modeling and network-based embedding to estimate semantic similarities from interactions among words, and subsequently apply Lasso regression to quantify their associations with property damage amounts, thereby estimating the fire risk index. This approach enables us to assess fire risk not only at the level of individual terms, but also within their broader textual context, where highly interactive related words provide insights into collective patterns of hazard representation and their potential impact on expected losses. The analysis highlights several domains of risk, including hazardous chemical leakage, unsafe storage practices, equipment and facility malfunctions, and environmentally induced ignition. The results demonstrate that text-derived indices provide interpretable and practically relevant insights, bridging unstructured narratives with structured loss information and offering a basis for evidence-based fire risk assessment and management. The derived Risk Index provides practical reference data for both safety management and insurance underwriting by enabling the prioritization of preventive measures within industrial sites and offering quantitative guidance for assessing facility-specific risk levels in insurance decisions. An R implementation of the proposed framework is openly available for public use.

Personal protective equipment use and health conditions among fire investigators

MSBRL: A novel approach for fire origin localization via window brightness pattern analysis in surveillance videos.

BackgroundFire disasters have emerged as one of the most prevalent causes of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Under these conditions, individuals may be exposed to extremely high temperatures. Identifying such human remains in forensic investigations, particularly those subjected to extreme temperatures, is challenging yet crucial. This study aimed to investigate the impact of different temperatures on the morphological and histological features of the human dental cementum, with an emphasis on the agglomeration patterns of tooth cementum annulation (TCA).ResultsExtracted mandibular premolar teeth (n = 30) were divided into two groups, direct and protected exposure groups. The samples were heated at 300 °C, 600 °C, and 1200 °C for 40 min. Post-exposure morphological measurements and histological examinations were performed to assess the effects of thermal exposure. Distinct temperature-dependent changes in the tooth morphology and cementum structure were observed. At 300 °C, both direct and protected exposure samples exhibited minimal morphological changes with intact and countable TCA. Samples directly exposed to 600 °C exhibited significant structural damage and became extremely fragile, whereas the protected samples demonstrated partial preservation with agglomerated TCA. At 1200 °C, severe fragmentation and micro-fractures were observed, particularly in the directly exposed samples, rendering the TCA counting impractical. The differences in morphological changes between the direct and protected exposure groups were statistically significant (p < 0.05).ConclusionsThis study highlights the resilience of the posterior teeth and the differential impacts of direct and protected thermal exposure. These results highlight the utility of TCA as a pathobiological marker for assessing the degree of thermal exposure in forensic settings. Moreover, understanding the morphological and histological alterations in dental cementum under varying temperatures can facilitate fire investigations by forensic odontologists.

This article aimed to determine the effectiveness of (Machine Learning, Artificial Neural Networks, Pattern Recognition and Data Analysis, and Fire Dynamics Simulations) in improving the results of arson investigations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The research relied on the descriptive method. The study community consisted of all members of the teams specializing in fire investigations. The research sample was taken using a simple random method that included (74) individuals from the research community. The researcher relied on the questionnaire as the main instrument for collecting data from the study sample. The results of the study showed that artificial intelligence techniques (Machine Learning, Artificial Neural Networks, Pattern Recognition and Data Analysis, and Fire Dynamics Simulations) can be effective in improving the results of arson investigations. The study recommended providing training programs to investigators on how to make full use of AI techniques in the investigation process.

BackgroundUnderstanding dental alterations at different temperatures is crucial in forensic odontology. Analyzing the effects of extreme heat on teeth provides critical information for victim identification in fire investigations. This study explores structural changes in dental tissues under varying thermal conditions. To analyze and document the changes in teeth subjected to various heat treatments using forensic imaging techniques, and to determine the applicability of these changes in forensic dental investigations. The study involved 24 freshly extracted healthy permanent teeth (12 anterior and 12 posterior), exposed to temperatures of 200 °C, 400 °C, 600 °C, and 800 °C for 15 min using a muffle furnace. Both pre- and post-heat teeth underwent macroscopic and radiographic examinations at various settings. Qualitative changes in dentition were analyzed and calculated as percentages.ResultsThere were no significant radiographic changes in teeth at 200 °C and 400 °C, but a noticeable reduction in radiopacity was revealed in enamel only at 600 °C and in both enamel and dentin at 800 °C at the 80 kV, 11 mA radiographic exposure settings.ConclusionThe study found notable radiopacity changes in enamel and dentin above 600 °C. Radiographic analysis of burnt dental remains has potential for improving victim identification and advancing forensic odontology.

The study analyzed the services of the Bureau of Fire Protection in the National Capital Region. The researcher employed mixed-method research using qualitative and quantitative designs. The researcher both used document analysis and statistical data analysis in the data. This study utilized a document analysis form of research that uses a systematic procedure to analyze documentary evidence and answer some research questions. The qualitative part, the document analysis, applies to problem number one, which sought to identify the Bureau of Fire Protection services in the National Capital Region. On the other hand, the Likert Scale and weighted mean, which fall under the quantitative methods, was used for problems numbers two and three. Problem statement number 2 assessed the services in terms of fire prevention, fire suppression, fire investigation and intelligence, and emergency medical or rescue services. Problem statement number three identified the problems encountered by the Bureau of Fire Protection in performing its services in NCR. Findings of the study showed that fire prevention, fire suppression, fire intelligence and investigation, and emergency rescue and medical services are being conducted by the BFP of the National Capital Region and effectively undertake their functions and roles in their operations. Further, all of the areas of services of the Bureau of Fire Protection in the NCR are Highly Implemented. It was further revealed that the lack of resources and technological advancements in firefighting was the main problem identified by the combined responses of the BFP personnel and the Barangay Officials.

Abstract Identification of ignitable liquids (ILs) plays an important role in fire investigation. Electronic noses (E-noses) have been used in the field of ILs identification due to their advantages of fast speed, low price and good portability. However, when we ran the same algorithm on different E-noses with the same sensor array (i.e. the same type and number of gas sensors) to identify the same ILs, we found that the identification results were different, mainly because of the poor consistency of the gas sensors used in the E-noses. To make the identification results of all E-noses essentially the same, each E-nose must be trained with a large amount of data individually, which would waste a lot of time. To address the issue of ILs identification across E-noses, we proposed a multi-branch adaptive feature fusion network (MAFF-Net) that can simultaneously process one-dimensional (1D) data directly output from E-noses and two-dimensional data converted from 1D data based on Gramian angular field. The MAFF-Net can be trained using one E-nose and then transplanted to another E-nose by fine-tuning its model parameters with a small training dataset. To verify the performance of the proposed MAFF-Net, three E-noses were designed and fabricated, and an ILs dataset was constructed based on the self-built E-noses. The experimental results show that the recognition accuracy of the MAFF-Net algorithm on E-nose No.1, No.2 and No.3 is 100.0%, 97.5% and 90% respectively, which is better than the five classical algorithms.

This article aimed to determine the effectiveness of (Machine Learning, Artificial Neural Networks, Pattern Recognition and Data Analysis, and Fire Dynamics Simulations) in improving the results of arson investigations in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). The research relied on the descriptive method. The study community consisted of all members of the teams specialized in fire investigations. The research sample was taken using a simple random method that included (74) individuals from the research community. The researcher relied on the questionnaire as the main instrument for collecting data from the study sample. The results of the study showed that artificial intelligence techniques (Machine Learning, Artificial Neural Networks, Pattern Recognition and Data Analysis, and Fire Dynamics Simulations) can be effective in improving the results of arson investigations. The study recommended providing training programs to investigators on how to make full use of AI techniques in the investigation process.

This case report highlights how micro-CT imaging was used to assist in the investigation of a homicide that involved a burnt-out car, with several burnt evidence samples submitted for examination. It is detailed how micro-CT was used for a police investigation to ensure a more effective workflow for triaging evidence. High resolution 2D micro-CT imaging provided quick characterisation of the contents of samples, eliminating the need for full 3D scanning of most samples. This eliminated time-consuming manual excavation of samples, preventing exposure to toxic chemicals. Furthermore, having the 2D and 3D micro-CT images allowed for a digital archive of evidence.

Analysis of heat induced changes in dental tissue for forensic application: A scanning electron microscope study.

Present work is a reporting of the case study for damage assessment of wind turbine tower, caused by accidental fire of the power cable in the tower of 2.2 MW wind turbine at a wind farm site in India. This work reports the methodology adopted for investigating the effect of thermal cycles caused due to accidental fire on the tower structure. Non-destructive testing methods such as, ultrasonic flaw detection, hardness testing and in-situ metallography is used for assessment of the fire affected components of tower structure of wind turbine. Appropriate interpretation of test results enabled us to recommend replacement of the damaged components of the wind turbine tower, while the unaffected components of tower are found safe to use. Further, it is observed that localized heating has affected the weld seam and plates of shell in some selected area only.

Forensic science is an incredible asset to decipher the flames in fire investigations. Fire investigation is sometimes referred to as origin and cause investigation. Fire investigators are working tirelessly to investigate the reality behind the fire, in the trenches of the devastation. After firefighters extinguished a fire, an investigation is launched to determine the origin and cause of the fire. Investigations require knowledge of basic fire science and a systematic approach. Fire investigation is a demanding area of expertise because there is uncertainty about the evidence, which means that, evidences are destroyed by the fire. In some countries, fire investigation is conducted by the Police Department, in some by the Fire Department, some countries by the Forensic Sciences Department. Private investigators’ fire scene examination is also accepted in some countries for insurance claims. The important point to bear in mind is that an accurate fire investigation will provide a beacon of truth while pursuing justice for victims and their next of kin. In the present case study, the fire scene was visited by the coauthor along with the Fire and Rescue Department of Malaysia Officers under the supervision of the corresponding author, who finally identified the origin and cause of the fire. Also, the fire scene was reconstructed.

This study investigated a factory fire that resulted in an unusual situation that caused the deaths of two firefighters. The official fire investigation report was analyzed, records were obtained, and on-site investigations and interviews were conducted. Using these additional data and a calorimetric analysis to determine the combustibility of goods stored in the building at the time, a functional 3D model was produced, and a fire dynamics simulator (FDS) was run. The model was augmented using the results of calorimetric experiments for three types of primary goods being stored in the warehouse area: paper lunch boxes, tissue paper, and corrugated boxes. The reaction heat data obtained for each of the three sample types was 848.24, 468.29, and 301.21 J g−1, respectively. The maximum mass loss data were 98.522, 84.439, and 90.811 mass% for each of the three types, respectively. A full-scale fire scene reconstruction confirmed the fire propagation routes and changes in fire hazard factors, such as indoor temperature, visibility, and carbon monoxide concentration. The FDS results were compared to the NIST recommended values for firefighter heat exposure time. The cause of death for both firefighters was also investigated in terms of the heat resistance of the facepiece lenses of their self-contained breathing apparatus. Based on the findings of this study, recommendations can be made to forestall the recurrence of similar events.

ABSTRACTShip fires pose significant threats to maritime safety. This study employs advanced text mining techniques alongside the K‐means algorithm to develop a risk structure for ship fires, aiming to identify key risks and fire scenarios. We collected detailed fire investigation reports from authoritative sources, creating a database of 160 incidents over the past 20 years to analyze accident patterns. To enhance traditional text mining, we extracted 260 risk descriptors using specialized dictionaries, calculating their correlations. The improved K‐means algorithm, utilizing cosine distance, clustered over 1000 related word combinations, revealing 13 key risks and 42 fire scenarios. From these findings, a risk structure was established through critical importance calculations. Results indicate that damage to flammable liquid tanks or pipes and improper storage of flammable solids are critical risks, elevating fire probability by over 15%. Risks like insulation failure and electrical short circuits showed critical importance values between 0.06 and 0.07. Notably, fire scenarios involving flammable oil leaks and electrical failures are interconnected, with the combination of flammable liquid leaks and insulation failure representing the most hazardous scenario, increasing fire probability by about 30%. This study introduces a data‐driven approach to identify potential risks and fire scenarios, contributing practically to risk prevention and management in maritime accidents.

Wood is a common material and is widely used in daily life. Small wood fragments or wooden products are sometimes found at crime scenes as evidence. We investigated the usefulness of micro-computed tomography (μCT) for forensic wood examination. First, X-ray and image acquisition conditions were optimized, and the relation between the μCT image resolution and the observable anatomical features of wood was examined. The minimum resolution mainly depended on the μCT instrument specifications; thus, the relationship between the voxel size in μCT images and the size of anatomical features should be checked. Next, μCT technique was applied to the forensic wooden samples such as fragile charcoal, wooden household items, and building materials damaged by fire. μCT analysis is useful for the estimation of wood species, forensic discrimination for trace or fragile wooden evidence, identification of broken household items, and imaging the fire damage of building materials in the fire investigation. μCT is a non-destructive technique and could be used for many types of forensic wood investigation.

Firefighters are at an increased risk of cancer and other health conditions compared with the general population. However, the specific exposures and mechanisms contributing to these risks are not fully understood. This information is critical to formulate and test protective interventions. The purpose of the Fire Fighter Cancer Cohort Study (FFCCS) is to conduct community-engaged research with the fire service to advance the evaluation and reduction of firefighter exposures, along with understanding and mitigating effects leading to an increased risk of cancer and other health conditions. This involves establishing a long-term (>30 years) firefighter multicenter prospective cohort study. The structure of the FFCCS includes a fire service oversight and planning board to provide guidance and foster communication between researchers and fire organizations; a data coordinating center overseeing survey data collection and data management; an exposure assessment center working with quantitative exposure data to construct a firefighter job exposure matrix; and a biomarker analysis center, including a biorepository. Together, the centers evaluate the association between firefighter exposures and toxic health effects. Firefighter research liaisons are involved in all phases of the research. The FFCCS research design primarily uses a set of core and project-specific survey questions accompanied by a collection of biological samples (blood and urine) for the analysis of biomarkers of exposure and effect. Data and samples are collected upon entry into the study, with subsequent collection after eligible exposures, and at intervals (eg, 1-2 years) after enrollment. FFCCS data collection and analysis have been developed to evaluate unique exposures for specific firefighter groups; cancer risks; and end points in addition to cancer, such as reproductive outcomes. Recruitment is carried out with coordination from partnering fire departments and eligible participants, including active career and volunteer firefighters in the United States. The FFCCS protocol development was first funded by the US Federal Emergency Management Agency in 2016, with enrollment beginning in February 2018. As of September 2024, >6200 participants from >275 departments across 31 states have enrolled, including recruit and incumbent firefighters. Biological samples have been analyzed for measures of exposure and effect. Specific groups enrolled in the FFCCS include career and volunteer structural firefighters, women firefighters, trainers, fire investigators, wildland firefighters, firefighters responding to wildland-urban interface fires, and airport firefighters. Peer-reviewed published results include measurement of exposures and the toxic effects of firefighting exposure. Whenever possible, research results are provided back to individual participants. The FFCCS is a unique, community-engaged, multicenter prospective cohort study focused on the fire service. Study results contribute to the evaluation of exposures, effects, and preventive interventions across multiple sectors of the US fire service, with broad implications nationally. DERR1-10.2196/70522.

ABSTRACTFire investigation employs an interdisciplinary approach, integrating knowledge from fire science, chemistry, materials science, emergency management, and engineering, and applying it systematically through a forensic lens. In Australia, fire investigation spans both the public and private sectors, and pathways into the field are extremely varied. Although there are globally available guidelines for fire investigation, given the variation in initial and ongoing training and education of fire investigators, scene‐to‐scene variations, and the enduring changes in modern materials and building practices, the evolution and refinement of investigative methodology largely relies on the communication of tacit and experiential knowledge of the investigative cohort. This article provides a brief review of some fundamental fire investigation principles and discusses the introduction of the Fire Origin Matrix method of origin determination for fire investigation. We then highlight the challenges in the uptake and understanding of novel methods for fire investigation, discuss some of the barriers to advancing fire investigation, and provide some comments on the future of fire investigation in Australia.

The new eco-friendly flammable refrigerant in air conditioners has resulted in an annual increase in fire incidents associated with these units. Fire investigators face significant challenges in identifying the causes of these fires. In this study, copper tube samples were extracted from various locations of air conditioner condenser debris post fire. The morphology characteristics of the ruptured copper tubes formed by a high-temperature flame in fire and that formed by corrosion were analyzed, respectively. The findings indicate that the ruptures in the copper tubes of air conditioners may be classified into two types based on their origins: ruptures resulting from fire and ruptures resulting from corrosion. The ruptures in the copper tubes resulting from fire are associated with the presence of aluminum alloy fins. At elevated temperatures, the copper and aluminum atoms persist in diffusing and fracturing. A significant quantity of silver-white aluminum is present surrounding the ruptures, and distinct elemental layers may be seen in the cross-section. The corrosion-induced ruptures in the copper tubes are associated with ant nest corrosion. Despite the influence of high-temperature flame melting on surface corrosion pits, they will not entirely obscure the pits and the cross-section continues to exhibit the bifurcated structure characteristic of ant nest corrosion. This investigation demonstrates that corrosion of ant nests is the root cause of copper tube breakage obscured by flames. An investigation method for the refrigerant leakage air conditioning fire is proposed. The above findings can provide proof and method for air conditioning fire investigation.

The research is devoted to the development and disaggregation of the carbon methodology to the extension of processes from wind power plants to adjacent objects. It has been determined that the most unsafe and unpleasant scenario for the development of fires for wind power plants is “ruin-fire” or “fire-ruin”. The authors carried out an analysis of the main shortcomings in the approaches to the rozrokhunkovogo identification of the opposite relations between the bodies and spores and the identification of problematic nutritional issues to the development of the scientific foundations of the assessment of the necessary values of the opposite ones between objects with specific geometric parameters, as well as other areas of interest. Fire safety measures and restrictions during full-scale fire experimental studies are justified, and environmental conditions and external wind influences are determined. Based on the most significant parameters that are involved in the process of assessing anti-fire structures, a proprietary methodology for conducting full-scale fire experimental investigations for the processes of fire expansion under wind has been developed. electrical installations to small objects. It is determined that the type, characteristics and extent of the necessary equipment and features of vimiruval technology for conducting experimental fire investigations are determined. The parameters of the fire platform and the main components of the imitation model of the wind power plant have been determined, as well as safety precautions for personnel have been determined. Further investigations will be aimed at the practical implementation of the fragmented methodology, by conducting a series of full-scale fire investigations. Also, the significance of the deposits is transferred to the infusion of design parameters of wind power plants in the process of expansion of the same objects, as a scientific basis for improving the basic rozrunkov method of assessing contrasting sections between everyday objects.