Initial action when dealing with fires not involving explosives

Question 1

Procedure on arrival

Answer 1

1. Briefly interview your informant
2. Secure and control the scene
3. Initial interview of the:
   - Specialist Fire Investigator, if present
   - OC of the first fire appliance to attend the scene
4. Interview the incident controller at the scene and find out:
   - the time and date of the call and the manner in which it was received
   - what appliances attended
   - the state of the fire when the fire service was called
   - what action the Fire Service has taken, particularly in entering the building and ventilating it after the fire
   - what information the Fire Service has about the building security
   - what alterations they have made to the scene, e.g. forced entry
   - whether they think the fire is suspicious, and why
   - their opinion of the informant
   - details of people or vehicles acting suspiciously in the vicinity
5. If the fire is extinguished, ensure safety of the scene before an initial conference is held with the Specialist Fire Investigator, Police and conduct a preliminary examination of the scene.
6. If deemed suspicious then re-group and hold a briefing conference.
7. Confer with other staff and determine a plan of action. Brief and deploy them to:
   - guard and control the scene
   - identify and interview witnesses at the scene
   - conduct local enquiries
8. Contact Comms and supply a SITREP. Ask for assistance if necessary and the attendance of specialists such as Fire Investigation Liaison Officer, Police Photographer and Fingerprint Technicians.