What is the role of a fire investigator?

A fire investigator plays a crucial role in the fire service by analyzing the circumstances surrounding fires to uncover the cause and origin. This involves collecting and preserving evidence from the fire scene, interviewing witnesses, and examining fire patterns. Understanding the cause of a fire is vital not only for legal and insurance purposes but also for preventing future incidents. Fire investigators use their findings to help improve safety standards and can provide expert testimony in court, making their role essential in the overall fire response and prevention strategy.

The other roles listed, such as suppressing hazardous materials, training new firefighters, and maintaining firefighting equipment, are important within the fire service but do not specifically pertain to the responsibilities of a fire investigator. Each of those functions supports the broader mission of fire safety and response but focuses on different aspects of fire service operations.