Arson Investigation

Fire fighters and arson investigators should be alert to manifestations of arsons.

Separate and distinct fires that happened in one flat or building, but have no connection with each other are an indication that the fire is of incendiary origin.

Candles are very often used as devices for setting fires. As candles of different types, makes, and size may be employed, it is sometimes necessary to obtain similar candles to determine the rate of burning permitting the arsonist to be in another place when an object ignites thus helping the arsonist to establish an alibi in the event of arrest.

Chemicals. One of the chemicals widely used by arsonist is phosphorous. Phosphorous has a very pungent odour, and can be identified by an investigator.

Matches are often used to ignite fires by taping them around cigarettes. When the cigarette burns down to the match heads, considerable flame happens. The time and rate of burning the cigarette allows him to escape and to be in another location when the fire starts.

Flammable liquids. A large variety of flammable liquids are used by professional arsonists. Among the most common are gasoline, kerosene and solvents. Gasoline, because of its volatility is dangerous, but frequently used due to its easy accessibility. There is frequently an explosion preceding the fire and the arsonist is frequently injured while starting the fire. Kerosene and solvents are generally used and are easily detectable by their odour and by chemical analysis of debris, left after the extinguishment of the fire. Alcohol is used extensively and is identified by small chemical analysis.

Carbon disulfide is a very dangerous liquid. It is heavier than water. Its fumes are very pungent, dangerous to firefighters, and can cause an explosion.

Paint thinners and acetone are quite similar. In fact, acetone is the base of most thinners now and is readily detectable by chemical analysis. Ether is sometimes used together with many other flammable liquids, all of which can be detected by odour or by chemical analysis of the debris.

Rags, clothing, curtains, bedding are sometimes used to add to the intensity of the fire. The addition of flammable liquids or compounds is readily discovered through chemical analysis.

Balloons are largely used to hold flammable liquids. They are placed in convenient locations throughout the building where heat makes the contents of the balloons spill over the fire, thereby aiding its spread. Sometimes the balloons are used to hold chemicals such as phosphorous. A small hole at the bottom allows the water to drain slowly away. When the phosphorous becomes dry, it ignites.

Gas. Gas is not preferable for the professional arsonist, who employs arson as a means of gaining profit, because explosions may occur without setting fire. However, many amateurs still use it.

Animals tied to ignition devices. Animals are sometimes used by arsonists. Stray dogs are tied to lamps or other means of ignition. When they move, they pull the device. Lamps, candles, chemicals, etc., are often placed in such a manner that dogs or cats will knock them trying to release themselves, and thus blaze starts.

Electrical devices. Perhaps the most popular electrical device, used by arsonists is the familiar electric iron. Everything looks innocent. The irons are left turned on in perfectly natural surroundings. The resultant ignition appears to be an accident. Electric heaters, toasters, irons, light bulbs, etc., have been used in similar schemes. Electric circuits which are deliberately overloaded are also used in the furtherance of arson.

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