CRJS350(4) - Research Paper Example

The investigator may also need an expert with analytical skills during post-scene investigation, for examination of documents, financial data or other reports, to identify, confirm or analyze theories or conclusions. Law enforcers may also be needed to keep the public away from the scene, as well as medical experts for first aid and counseling of victims and family members. The fire investigators should also get training to enable them evaluate fire spread, ignition dynamics, as well as fire detection.

As a Metropolitan Arson Squad training and logistics officer, I articulate the training and equipment needed for arson scene investigations. There are several tools and equipment needed during and after an arson investigation. The most essential include a barricade tape to keep the public away from the scene, camera and spare batteries for photography of the scene to preserve evidence as well as a tape recorder (IAAI, 2011). Communications equipment is also important to get in touch with other agencies, for instance, the police or medical experts.

Catalytic combustion detectors that speed oxidation reactions from certain chemicals and fuels are also important for the investigators. Photo-ionization detectors are also important for detecting the presence of hydrocarbon vapors. . Training is important for the unit to carry out satisfactory investigation of the scene. For instance, training on several accelerants such as gasoline and kerosene and others is important to educate on their effect of speeding up the growth and spread of fires (IAAI, 2011).

Most accelerant liquids have unique characteristics as seen in fire development and after the fire is out. The same also goes for chemicals, fuels and other ignitable materials. The investigator should know what to collect in terms of importance. Photography training for the investigators is important, as evidence inside and outside will be needed before excavation can be done. Pieces of evidence recovered should also be photographed. Training should also be done on how to collect trace evidence which will be used in the investigation.

This includes skin, blood and hair, from which DNA can be identified. Fingerprints can also be taken from accelerant containers and devices. There are personal items that the investigator should carry. These include identification cards, uniform and badges for identification and their own protection (IAAI, 2011). Flash lights would be used to light the scene so as to facilitate the investigative process. A good dependable flashlight can be used by individual investigators but it cannot light up the whole scene.

Thus a larger lighting device is needed. Electrical generators can be used if the main power supply has been interrupted. If a gasoline generator is used, it must be kept away from the origin of the fire and all cords must be examined to ensure the scene is not contaminated with hydrocarbons (Schottke, 2013). Inverters, though not as strong as generators, can