FIREPRO: Fire Investigation, Litigation Support, Investigation of Fire or Explosion Incidents




				Fire Investigation and Litigation Support Fire Investigation FIREPRO Investigation of Fire or Explosion Incidents FIREPRO staff can examine and document a scene using a proven procedure to observe, photograph, and record data. Fire service and witness observations are documented through interviews. We work from the outside in, narrowing the space of interest to determine the area of fire origin first and then identify the fire cause scenario and contributing factors. Documenting the scene is done utilizing a process of sketching, measuring, layering, and photographing. The scene and witness data are analyzed and results reported in a briefing or written report, the file is then preserved, and FIREPRO is available for litigation support, as needed. The Elements Every fire incident is different; each had different elements that may be of interest. Some of the key elements that are examined when necessary are: Building and Contents Characteristics Occupancy Utilities and Systems Fire Protection Systems Witness Observations Other Data Evidence The Results All information gathered, along with the scene data, can then be analyzed to determine fire origin and cause of contributing factors to ignition and fire growth. Depending on a client's needs, FIREPRO will report the results in a briefing or written format. The file will be preserved for future litigation support needs. Litigation Support FIREPRO engineers and analysts are experienced in providing expert opinions and testimony. We assist clients with consultation through the litigation process and utilize proven, reliable methods to support the analysis and testimony. Testimony is augmented with time lines, models and graphics. Depending on a client's needs, fire litigation support activities may include: Fire and Explosion Scene Investigation Case Reviews and Consultations Reconstruction of Fire and Explosion Incidents Analysis of Opposing Reports and Testimony Building and Fire Code Review $ Equipment Examinations Fire Alarm System Performance Analysis Fire Suppression System Performance Analysis Computer Fire Modeling Forensic Laboratory Coordination Expert Testimony Trial Exhibits: Models; Time Lines; and Graphics What is Fire Reconstruction? Fire reconstruction is an organized, step-by-step portrayal of the most likely course of an incident including: events before ignition; the ignition scenario; fire and smoke spread; and fire system and occupant response; fire department response through termination of the incident. It involves the development of a building and incident time line history which supports the analysis to determine a fire's origin and cause and to establish factors contributing to the fire's casualties or loss. The FIREPRO Reconstruction Process The objective is to assemble the facts, analyze the data to objectively determine what happened, and present an opinion in a clear and understandable manner. FIREPRO can: Identify the critical information necessary for a fire event analysis. Assemble the facts from reports, depositions, and documents. Organize the facts using our proprietary time line program FactFileTM. Analyze the facts and apply staff experience, standards, fire research and technology. Effectively present the analysis, expert opinions, and testimony. Why FIREPRO? FIREPRO's reputation for fire reconstruction excellence has been built on its technical proficiency. As a fire engineering firm active in the application of modern technology and scientific knowledge for the protection of resources against fire, FIREPRO has the staff and experience to analyze a fire event. By combining the diverse disciplines of fire engineering, fire investigations, fire science, and construction technology with this extensive experience, FIREPRO meets its client needs.