Work on's

Question 1

What are some common electrical ignition sources and techniques?

Answer 1

Heaters and clothing
Electric lamp and petrol igniters
Ignition on main switchboard (gas torch on -)
“fallen” lamp in conjunction with combustible material
Toaster and curtains
Pot of stew left on element
Ceiling exhaust fans

Question 2

When examining a fire involving explosives, what are the steps?

Answer 2

Once declared safe, conduct scene exam, use video and photographs.
Continually reconstruct
Request attendance of ESR, ask to bring suitable material for swabbing.

Question 3

If you are unable to identify the explosive using scientific analysis, consider reconstructing the explosion. Reconstructive explosions
must be carried out only?

Answer 3

. under the supervision of the O/C Scene
. at a suitable range or site
. in conditions as close to those of the original explosion as possible
. in close association with explosives and scientific advisors
. as a scientific test.

Question 4

What are some characteristics of damage caused by explosives?

Answer 4

• Cratering
• Spread of debris
• Shredding of materials
• Smell of almonds
• Overly of dust
• Shrapnel marks

Question 5

If a detonator is further in the explosive are you more likely to find traces of it or not?

Answer 5

If inserted well into the explosive, you are only likely to find small traces of it, however if not fully inserted you may find it fragmented.

Question 6

Electric detonators, what may you find ?

Answer 6

Lead wire, may held you ID type of detonator
Neoprene plug
short circuiting shunt
Delay setting tag
Fragments of electric detonator casing

Question 7

What is some examples of equipment you may need along with the suspicious fire sampling kit?

Answer 7

• String
• Excavation tools
• tweezers
• Permanent markers
• A saw
• Tape

Question 8

When using a suspicious fire sampling kit, what must you ensure?

Answer 8

• samples have not been and cannot be cross contaminated
• containers are sealed and clearly labelled
• liquid samples secured and isolated from other exhibits
• kit is forwarded as a unit, even if only one container has been used
• package is correctly addresses.

Question 9

A rural fire requiring investigation is one that is?

Answer 9

. where the rural fire authority intends to make a claim under the rural fire fighting fund

. where negligence has been shown by a person or party . these offences are usually dealt with under the Forest and Rural Fires Act 1977, but with the recent changes to Arson statute (around recklessness) the Crimes Act should not be discounted

. all suspicious fires

. multiple fires start in an area with no apparent reason

. any fires which may provide the Rural Fire Authority with information and assist in their prevention and investigation strategies.

Question 10

What are some examples of parties who could be involved with a rural fire investigation ?

Answer 10

.
Local Council
.
Department of Conservation
.
Local Rural Fire Officer
.
Meteorologist
.
Electrical engineer
.
Insurance agents/loss adjusters
.
Privately initiated rural fire investigators
.
Any relevant industry specialists.

Question 11

When is the only time that you can disclose a suspects criminal records to fire service personnel?

Answer 11

If you believe the joint investigation will be significantly enhanced
and
Not eligible for clean slate legislation