La Carlota City College

City of La Carlota
–o0o-

Criminal Justice Education

Module in CDI 6
1ST semester, AY 2021-2022

WILMA CASIANO FRANCO, MS CRIM

Contact number: 09182522664
Email: wilmzfranco@gmail.com
Facebook account: Wheelmz C. Franco

I. COURSE TITLE: CDI 6 - FIRE PROTECTION AND ARSON INVESTIGATION

II. NUMBER OF UNITS: 3 UNITS

III. COURSE DESCRIPTION:

The course presents the creation of the Bureau of Fire Protection, its Mandate, powers and functions. It
also covers the understanding of the behavior, characteristics, and chemistry of fire. It involved fire safety and
protection, including the conduct of arson investigation

IV. COURSE OUTCOMES:

At the end of the semester, the students should be able to:
1. State the basic principles of fire technology.
2. Determine the significance of studying technology of fire and arson investigation.
3. Describe satisfactorily the methods of fire investigation.
4. Explain the legal provisions relative to the Investigation of acts involving incendiarism.
5. Discuss the legal aspects of arson.

V. COURSE OUTLINE:
A. Prelim Period

Module 1 - Fire in General

-Theories of Fire
-Elements of Fire
 -Nature of Fire
-Products of Combustion

Module 2 - Definition of terms based on P.D 1613 used in the study of fire technology.
-Classification of Fire
-Types of Fire Extinguisher
-Four Methods of extinguishment

Module 3 – Fire fighting

-Fire fighting operation
-Fire fighting procedure

-Fire Prevention and Public Safety

-Basic Fire investigation
-The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)

Module 4: BUILDING CODE, BUILDING REQUIREMENTS AND PREFIRE PLAN IN

GENERAL

- PURPOSE AND REQUIREMENTS FOR PREFIRE PLANS

Module 5: NATURAL COVER FIRE PREFIRE PLANNING

Module 6: FIRE INVESTIGATION

Module 7: ARSON

Module 8: THE FIRE ORIGIN

- Methods of Establishing Arson

- Gathering, Preserving and Analyzing Evidences
- Technical Methods in Arson Investigation
VI. CONTENT DISCUSSION:
MODULE 1 DISCUSSION: FIRE IN GENERAL – PRELIM PERIOD

Content and Technical Information

What is fire?
Fire is the rapid oxidation of a material in the exothermic chemical process of combustion, releasing
heat, light, and various reaction products. The flame is the visible portion of the fire. Flames consist primarily of
Carbon Dioxide, Water vapor, oxygen and nitrogen.
Theories of fire
The start of fire
All matters exist of one of the three states – solid, liquid and gas or vapor. The atoms or molecules of a
solid are packed closely together, and that of a liquid is packed loosely, the molecules of a vapor are not packed
together at all, they are free to move about. In order for a substance to oxidize, its molecules must be pretty well
surrounded by oxygen molecules. The molecules of solids or liquids are too tightly packed to be surrounded.
Thus, only vapors can burn.
However, when a solid or liquid is heated, its molecules move about rapidly. If enough heat is applied,
some molecules break away from the surface to form a vapor just above the substance. This vapor can now mix
with oxygen. If there is enough heat to raise the vapor to its ignition temperature (temperature needed to burn),
and if there is enough oxygen present, the vapor will oxidize rapidly – it will start to burn.
The start of burning is the start of a Chain Reaction (the burning process). Vapor from heated fuel rises,
mixes with air and burns. It produces enough heat to release more vapor and to draw in air to burn that vapor.
As more vapor burns, flame production increases. More heat is produced, more vapor released, more air drawn
into the flames and more vapor burns, the chain reaction keeps increasing – the size of the fire increases until
fuel is consumed.
Three things must come together to have a flame:
Heat - the first element in fire triangle is heat, which is perhaps the most essential of fire elements. A
fire cannot ignite unless it has a certain amount of heat, and it cannot grow without heat.
Fuel/vapor – the second element in the fire triangle is fuel source can be anything that is flammable.
Oxygen – oxygen air contains about 21 percent oxygen, and most fires require at least 16 percent
oxygen content to burn.
Combustible products are heated until they produced a vapor. The vapor is what actually burns, this is
why gasoline is dangerous, and the vapor is always presents in our climate. Diesel fuel is more difficult to light
because you have to heat the fuel to produce a vapor.
Thus, there are three conditions essential for fire: fuel, oxygen, and heat (or ignition source). These
three conditions are often represented as the fire triangle. If one of these conditions is missing, fire does not
occur; and if one of them is removed, fire is extinguished.
Heat can travel from one place to another in three ways: Conduction, Convection and Radiation.
Conduction is the transfer of heat between substances that are in direct contact with each other. The better the
conductor, the more rapidly heat will be transferred. Metal is a good conduction of heat.
 Heat convection is the transfer of thermal energy by the physical movement of fluid (liquid, gas, or
plasma) from one location to another. Heat convection is often the primary mode of energy transfer in liquids
and gases. Along with conduction and radiation, convection is one of three basic methods of heat transfer.
Radiation heat transfer is the energy that is emitted by matter in the form of photons or electromagnetic
waves. Radiation can be important even in situations in which there is an intervening medium. Radiation with
wavelength between 0.1 and 100 μm is in form of thermal radiation and is called radiation heat transfer.
A. The physical properties
1. Specific Gravity – the ratio of the weight of a solid or liquid substance to the weight of an equal
volume of water.
2. Vapor density – the weight of a volume of pure gas composed to the volume of dry air at the
same temperature and pressure.
3. Vapor pressure – the force exerted by the molecules on the surface of a liquid.
4. Temperature -the measure of the degree of
thermal agitation of molecules.
5. Boiling Point- the constant temperature at which
the vapor pressure of the liquid is equal to the
atmospheric pressure.
6. Ignition/Kindling temperature at which the substance must be
heated in order to initiate combustion.

7. Fire Point - the lowest temperature of a liquid in

an open container at which vapors are evolved
fast enough to support combustion.

8. Flash Point -the temperature at which a

flammable liquid forms a vapor-air mixture that
ignites (mixture with in the explosive range).

To burn a fuel (combustible material), its temperature must be raised until ignition point is reached. Thus,
before a fuel start to burn or before it can be ignited, it has to be exposed to a certain degree of temperature.
When the temperature of a certain substance is very high, it releases highly combustible vapors known as FREE
RADICALS (combustible vapors such as hydrogen gas, carbon monoxide, carbon dioxide, and nitrogen).
During the process of pyrolysis, the following are involved:
• the fuel is heated until its temperature reaches
its fire point,
• decomposition takes place - moisture in the fuel
is converted to vapor,
• decomposition produces combustible vapors that
rise to the surface of the fuel (free radicals)
• free radicals undergo combustion.
B. The Chemical Properties
 B. The Chemical Properties

1. Endothermic Reactions - changes whereby energy (heat) is absorbed or is added before the reaction
takes place.
2. Exothermic Reactions - those that release or give off energy (heat) thus they produce substances with
less energy than the reactants.
3. Oxidation - a chemical change that is exothermic, a change in which combustible material (fuel) and an
oxidizing agent (air), react. Example of oxidation is combustion which is the same as actual burning
(rapid oxidation)
4. Flames - flames are incandescent (very bright/glowing with intense heat) gases. It is a combustion
product and a manifestation of fire when it is in its gas-phased combustion.

Types of flames

A. Based on Color and Completeness of Combustibility of Fuel

1. Luminous Flame – is orange-red, deposit soot at the bottom of a
vessel being heated due to incomplete combustion and has a low
temperature.
2. Non-Luminous Flame – s blue, there is a complete combustion of
fuel and has relatively high temperature.

B. Based on Fuel and Air Mixture

1. Premixed Flame is exemplified by a Bunsen- type
laboratory burner where hydrocarbon (any substance
containing primarily carbon and hydrogen) is thoroughly
mixed with air before reaching the flame zone.
2. Diffusion Flame - is observed when gas (fuel) alone is
forced through a nozzle into the atmosphere which
diffuses in the surrounding atmosphere in order to form a
flammable mixture. The candle flame is an example of
diffusion flame governed purely by molecular diffusion,
and the flame of the oxyacetylene torch. (diffused-
dispersed, widely spread).
C. Based on Smoothness
1. Laminar Flame - when a particle follows a smooth path
through a gaseous flame.
2. Turbulent Flame are those having unsteady irregular
flows. As physical size, gas density or velocity is increased,
all laminar gas flows tend to become turbulent.
Fire Triangle

The fire tetrahedron is useful in illustrating and remembering the combustion process because it has
room for the chain reaction and because each face touches the other three faces. The basic difference between
the fire triangle and the fire tetrahedron is that: The tetrahedron illustrates how flaming combustion is supported
and sustained through the chain reaction. In this sense, the chain reaction face keeps the other three faces from
falling apart.
Elements of Fire
Making and using fire is one of the first major developments of human civilization. It helped us develop
more things and made us grow to where we are today. Since the day fire was developed, human have gone a
long way in making use of such elements. It is a very transformative resource and humans have since using fire
in this capacity. Nearly everything fire touches, fire transforms, for better or for worse.
Four elements must be present in order for fire to exist. These elements are HEAT, FUEL, OXYGEN
and CHAIN REACTION. While not everything is known about the Combustion process, it is generally
accepted that fire is a chemical reaction. This Reaction is dependent upon a material rapidly oxidizing, or
uniting with oxygen so rapidly that it produces heat and flame. Until the advent of newer fire extinguishing
agents, fire was thought of as a triangle with the three sides represented by heat, fuel, and oxygen.
If any one of the three sides were to be taken away, the fire would cease to exist. Studies of modern fire
extinguishing agents have revealed a fourth element - a self propagating chain reaction in the combustion
process. As a result, the basic elements of fire are represented by the fire tetrahedron - HEAT, FUEL,
OXYGEN and CHAIN REACTION. The theory of fire extinguishment is based on removing any one or more
of the four elements in the fire tetrahedron to suppress the fire.

Removing the heat

In order to remove the heat, something must be applied to the fire to absorb the heat or act as a heat
exchanger. Water is not the only agent used to accomplish this, but it is the most common. A more detailed
discussion of how to apply water on a fire and some theories regarding its use as an extinguishing agent will be
covered in a later section.

Removing the fuel

Under many circumstances, it is not practical to attempt to remove the fuel from the fire. When dealing
with flammable liquid fires, valves can be shut off and storage vessels pumped to safe areas to help eliminate
the supply of fuel to the fire. Flammable gas is completely extinguished by shutting off the fuel supply.

Remove the oxygen

 Oxygen as it exists in our atmosphere (21%) is sufficient to support combustion in most fire situations.
Removal of the air or oxygen can be accomplished by separating it from the fuel source or by displacing it with
an inert gas. Examples of separation would be foam on a flammable liquid fire, a wet blanket on a trash fire, or
a tight fitting lid on a skillet fire. Agents such as CO2, nitrogen, and steam are often used to displace the
oxygen.

Interrupt the chain reaction

Modern extinguishing agents, such as dry chemical and halons, have proven to be effective on various
fires even though these agents do not remove heat, fuel, or oxygen. Dry chemical and halogenated agents are
thought to suspend or bond with “free radicals” that are created in the combustion process and thus prevent
them from continuing the chain reaction. A more detailed study of this phenomenon is available from the NFPA
Fire Protection Handbook and various manufacturers of special fire extinguishing agents.

Nature of fire
By now you’ve almost certainly heard about the massive wildfire that has devastated Fort McMurry,
Alberta, nicknamed “the beast” by local firefighters. This wildfire has so far destroyed about 10% of the city of
Fort McMurry, as well as hundreds of thousands of acres of native boreal forest in the surrounding area. As of
this writing the fire is still not under control and additional evacuations have been ordered. The cause of the fire
has not yet determined.
Fires in nature act as a clearing mechanism for accumulated organic debris, and in some ecosystems, fire
is actually required to release from pinecones or to stimulate seed germination.

Products of Combustion
Fire is the result of a chemical reaction called combustion. At a certain point in the combustion reaction,
called the ignition point, flames are produced. Combustion is defined as rapid oxidation producing light and
heat flames. Combustion can take place when 3 factor or elements are present: fuel, heat, and oxygen.
Combustion can be slow or fast depending on the amount of oxygen available. Combustion that results in a
flame is very fast and is called burning. Combustion can only occur between gases.
COMBUSTION
Generally speaking, for any material to burn, it must be heated to the point that it releases vapors that
may be ignited. The temperature at which a material (solid, liquid or gas) will be capable of being ignited varies
greatly from one material to another. Another factor to be considered, particularly in the case of solids, is the
physical size and shape of the material. The more surface area subjected to heat and resulting vaporization, the
more easily ignitable it becomes. As an example – it is very difficult to light a large log in a fireplace with a
single match, but very small pieces of wood, having more combined surface area exposed to heat, can be easily
ignited.
Chemical reaction in the combustion process
Fuels can be solids, liquids or gases. During the chemical reaction that produces fire, fuel is heated to
such an extent that (if not already a gas) it releases gases from its surface. Only gases can react in combustion.
Gases are made up of molecules (groups of atoms). When these gases are hot enough, the molecules in the
gases break apart and fragments of molecules rejoin with oxygen from the air to make new product molecules –
water molecules (H2O) and carbon dioxide molecules (CO2) – and other products if burning is not complete.

The heat generated by the reaction is what sustains the fire. The heat of the flame will
keep remaining fuel at ignition temperature. The flame ignites gases being emitted, and the fire spreads. As long
as there is enough fuel and oxygen, the fire keeps burning. Fuel + oxygen (from the air) = combustion products
(mainly CO2 + H2O) + heat energy.
In complete combustion, the burning fuel will produce only water and carbon dioxide (no smoke or other
products). The flame is typically blue. For this to happen, there needs to be enough oxygen to combine
completely with (CH4), many commonly known as natural gas, at home for cooking. When the gas is heated
(by a flame or spark) and if there is enough oxygen in the atmosphere, the molecules will break apart and
reform totally as water and carbon dioxide.

Incomplete combustion produces products such as carbon (C) and carbon monoxide (CO) as well as water and
carbon dioxide. The burning flame is typically yellow or orange and there is smoke. If there is not enough
oxygen available during a chemical reaction, incomplete combustion occurs, and products such as carbon (C)
and carbon monoxide (CO) as well as water and carbon dioxide are produced. Less heat energy is released
during incomplete combustion than complete combustion. In incomplete combustion, the burning flame is
typically yellow or orange and there is smoke.
COMBUTION AND ITS PRINCIPLE
What makes a fire burn? Why is one fire a roaring inferno while another barely creeps along? Fire is a
chemical reaction in which energy in the form of heat is produced. When forest fuels burn, there is a chemical
combination of the oxygen in the air with woody material, pitch and other burnable elements found in the forest
environment. This process in known as Combustion. Combustion is a chain reaction chemically similar to
photosynthesis in reverse.
Photosynthesis requires a large amount of heat which is furnished by the sun. The Combustion process
releases this heat. The tremendous amount of heat that is produced in the burning process is the major reason
that the suppression of wildfires is such a difficult task and why the use of prescribed fire is a complex and
exacting process requiring knowledgeable and experienced people. The combustion process or fire is
sometimes called rapid oxidation. It is similar to the formation of rust on iron or the decay of dead wood in the
forest, except that the process is drastically speeded up. Fire begins with ignition. The match is a common
ignition device. Friction creates sufficient heat to ignite the phosphorus on the end of the match. Combustion
occurs and the match flames.
Heat is necessary to begin the combustion process. Once started, fire produces its own heat. Wild land fires
originate from such sources of heat as matches, embers from cigarettes, cigars or pipes, campfires, trash fires,
exhaust sparks from railroad locomotives, sparks from brake shoes or hot-box on railroad cars. lightning,
spontaneous combustion, hot ashes and arson.
POSSIBLE SOURCES OF IGNITION
Ignition causes a release of flammable liquid or gas to become a fire (jet fire, flash fire, pool fire etc.) or
explosion. There are many possible sources of ignition and those that are most likely will depend on the release
scenario. Sources of ignition include electrical sparks, static electricity, naked flames, hot surfaces, impact,
friction, etc.
KNOWN IGNITION SOURCES FOR VAPOUR MIXES
• Electric sparks and arcs (from electrical circuits, motors, switches etc.);
• Mechanical sparks (from friction and falling objects);
• Static electrical sparks;
• Lightning;
• Flame (including flaring, boilers, smoking);
• Hot surfaces (including hot work, hot processing equipment, electrical equipment);
• Heat of compression;
• Chemical reactions (eg auto-ignition of oil-soaked lagging on hot piping); and
• High energy radiation, microwaves, RF, etc.

MODULE 2 DISCUSSION: DEFINITION OF TERMS BASED ON P.D 1613 USED IN THE

STUDY OF FIRE TECHNOLOGY.

FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE THE SPREAD OF FIRE

SPONTANEOUS COMBUSTION - Spontaneous combustion, the outbreak of fire without application of heat
from an external source. It may occur when combustible matter, such as hay or coal, is stored in bulk.
FLASHOVER FIRE - Flashover is a thermally-driven event during which every combustible surface exposed
to thermal radiation in a compartment or enclosed space rapidly and simultaneously ignites. Flashover normally
occurs when the upper portion of the compartment reaches a temperature of approximately 1,100 °F for
ordinary combustibles.
BACK DRAFT FIRE - Backdraft is usually defined as a deflagration resulting from the sudden introduction of
oxygen into a ventilation-limited space containing unburned fuel and gases. When the air combines with the
unburned fuel, rapid ignition can occur with devastating force.
FLASH FIRE - a fire that ignites and spreads quickly at a high temperature but that only lasts for a short
duration. These fires are sudden and are caused by the ignition of a combustible material (such as a solid dust,
liquid aerosol, or gas) that has been dispersed into the air
FLAME - is a chemical combination of two aerosol substances.
COMBUSTION - is a quick physical and chemical phenomenon (with increasing temperature) between two
substances one of which is a gas.
ACCELERANT - is a substance which can provoke combustion when mixed with a fuel (oxygen).
FUELS - are substances which, when combined with oxygen, create a chemical reaction in which strong heat is
generated.

This is The Fire Triangle. Actually, it's a tetrahedron, because there are four elements
that must be present for a fire to exist. There must be oxygen to sustain combustion, heat to raise the material to
its ignition temperature, fuel to support the combustion and a chemical reaction between the other three
elements. Remove any one of the four elements to extinguish the fire. The concept of Fire Protection is based
upon keeping these four elements separate.

CLASSIFICATION OF FIRE
Based on Cause
• Natural Causes – such as
Spontaneous heating – the automatic chemical reaction that results to spontaneous combustion due to auto
ignition of organic materials, the gradual rising of heat in a confined space until ignition temperature is reached.
Lighting – a form of static electricity; a natural current with a great magnitude, producing tremendous
amperage and voltage. Lightning usually strikes objects that are better electrical conductors than air. It can
cause fire directly or indirectly. Indirectly when it strikes telephone and other transmission lines, causing an
induced line surge. It can also cause flash fire or dust explosion. When lightning strikes steel or metal rod
covered with, the dust will suddenly burn thus resulting to an explosion.
A lightning may be in the form of:
Hot Bolt – longer in duration; capable only of igniting combustible materials.
Cold Bolt – shorter in duration, capable of splintering a property or literally blowing apart an entire
structure, produces electrical current with tremendous amperage and very high temperature.
Radiation of Sunlight – when sunlight hits a concave mirror, concentrating the light on a combustible
material thereby igniting it.

• Accidental Causes – such as

Electrical Accidents in the form of:
Short Circuit – unusual or accidental connections between two points at different potentials (charge) in an
electrical circuit of relatively low resistance.
Arcing – the production of sustained luminous electrical discharge between separated electrodes; an electric
hazard that results when electrical current crosses the gap between 2electrical conductors.
Sparking – production of incandescent particles when two different potentials (charged conductors) come in
contact; occurs during short circuits or welding operations.
Induced Current – induced line surge – increase electrical energy flow or power voltage; induced current;
sudden increase of electrical current resulting to the burning of insulating materials, explosion of the fuse box,
or burning of electrical appliances.
Overheating of electrical appliances – the increase or rising of amperage while electric current is flowing in a
transmission line resulting to the damage or destruction of insulating materials, maybe gradual or rapid, internal
or external.
• Purely accidental causes
• Negligence and other forms of human error
• Intentional causes (Incendiary)
If in the burned property, there are preparations or traces of accelerants, plants and trailers, then the cause of fire
is intentional.
Accelerant – highly flammable chemical that are used to facilitate flame propagation.
Plant – the preparation and or gathering of combustible materials needed to start a fire.
Trailer – the preparation of flammable substances in order to spread the fire.

Based on Burning Fuel (the classes of fire)

Class A: Ordinary solid combustibles such as paper, wood, cloth and some plastics.

Class B: Flammable liquids such as alcohol, ether, oil, gasoline and grease, which are best extinguished by
smothering.

Class C: Electrical equipment, appliances and wiring in which the use or a nonconductive extinguishing agent
prevents injury from electrical shock. Don’t use water.

Class D: Certain flammable metallic substances such as sodium and potassium. These materials are normally
not found in the Medical Center.
Class K: Fires involving commercial cooking appliances with vegetable oil, animal oils, or fats at high
temperature. A wet potassium acetate, low pH-based agent is used for this class of fire.
• Some types of fire extinguishing agents can be used on more than one class of fire. Others have
warnings where it would be dangerous for the operator to use on a particular fire extinguishing agent.

Fire Extinguishers
A Fire Extinguisher is a mechanical device, usually made of metal, containing chemical, fluids, or gasses for
stopping fires, the means for application of its contents for the readily moved from place to place
It is also a portable device used to put out fires of limited size.

Types of Fire Extinguishers

Water and Foam

Water and Foam fire extinguishers extinguish the fire by taking away the heat element of the fire triangle. Foam
agents also separate the oxygen element from the other elements. Water extinguishers are for Class A fires only
- they should not be used on Class B or C fires. The discharge stream could spread the flammable liquid in a
Class B fire or could create a shock hazard on a Class C fire.

Carbon Dioxide
Carbon Dioxide fire extinguishers extinguish fire by taking away the oxygen element of the fire triangle and
also be removing the heat with a very cold discharge. Carbon dioxide can be used on Class B & C fires. They
are usually ineffective on Class A fires.

Dry Chemical
Dry Chemical fire extinguishers extinguish the fire primarily by interrupting the chemical reaction of the fire
triangle. Today's most widely used type of fire extinguisher is the multipurpose dry chemical that is effective on
Class A, B, and C fires. This agent also works by creating a barrier between the oxygen element and the fuel
element on Class A fires. Ordinary dry chemical is for Class B & C fires only. It is
important to use the correct extinguisher for the type of fuel! Using the incorrect agent can allow the fire to re-
ignite after apparently being extinguished successfully.

Wet Chemical
Wet Chemical is a new agent that extinguishes the fire by removing the heat of the fire triangle and prevents re-
ignition by creating a barrier between the oxygen and fuel elements. Wet chemical of Class K extinguishers was
developed for modern, high efficiency deep fat fryers in commercial cooking operations. Some may also be
used on Class A fires in commercial kitchens.

Clean Agent
Halogenated or Clean Agent extinguishers include the halon agents as well as the newer and less ozone
depleting halocarbon agents. They extinguish the fire by interrupting the chemical reaction and/or removing
heat from the fire triangle. Clean agent extinguishers are effective on Class A, B and C fires. Smaller sized
handheld extinguishers are not large enough to obtain a 1A rating and may carry only a Class B and
C rating.
 Dry Powder
Dry Powder extinguishers are similar to dry chemical except that they extinguish the fire by separating the fuel
from the oxygen element or by removing the heat element of the fire triangle. However, dry powder
extinguishers are for Class D or combustible metal fires, only. They are ineffective on all other classes of fires.

Water Mist
Water Mist extinguishers are a recent development that extinguish the fire by taking away the heat element of
the fire triangle. They are an alternative to the clean agent extinguishers where contamination is a concern.
Water mist extinguishers are primarily for Class A fires, although they are safe for use on Class C fires as well

Cartridge Operated Dry Chemical

Cartridge Operated Dry Chemical fire extinguishers extinguish the fire primarily by
interrupting the chemical reaction of the fire triangle. Like the stored pressure dry chemical
extinguishers, the multipurpose dry chemical is effective on Class A, B, and C fires. This agent also
works by creating a barrier between the oxygen element and the fuel element on Class A fires.
Ordinary dry chemical is for Class B & C fires only. It is important to use the correct
extinguisher for the type of fuel! Using the incorrect agent can allow the fire to re-ignite after
apparent

FIRE EXTINGUISHING METHODS

• Cooling: removal of HEAT. (by water. Generally, for Class "A”)
• Starvation: removal of FUEL (by cutting fuel supply)
• Smoothering: removal of OXYGEN. (by using CO2 or DCP- dry chemical powder)
• Chain breaking mechanism: break the chain. (by DCP) or (BLANKETING) - A fire blanket is a safety
device designed to extinguish incipient (starting) fires. It consists of a sheet of a fire retardant material
which is placed over a fire in order to smother it.
What are the methods of extinguishing the 4 Classes of Fire?
• CLASS A FIRES – by quenching and cooling: water is the best agent in cooling the burning solid
materials; water has a quenching effect that can reduce the temperature of a burning material below its
ignition temperature; (Fire extinguishers which have water, sand, acid, foam and special solution
containing alkali methyl dust, as found in the loaded stream extinguisher, should be used for this type of
fire.
• CLASS B FIRES – by smothering or blanketing (oxygen exclusion). This type of fire is controlled by
foam, loaded stream, carbon dioxide, dry chemical and vaporizing liquid.
• CLASS C FIRES – controlled by a non-conducting extinguishing agent: the safest procedure is to
always de-energize the electrical circuit. Extinguishers hat should be used to put out these type of fires
are Carbon Dioxide Extinguishers, Dry Chemical, Vaporizing liquids.
• CLASS D FIRES – by using special extinguishing agents marked specifically for metals.
GE type, meth LX, Lith X, Meth L, Kyl, dry sand and dry talc can put out class D fires
• CLASS E FIRES – only combination of the above methods.

• The basic methods for extinguishing a fire are to suffocate it by ensuring that it cannot have access to
oxygen, to cool it with a liquid such as water which reduces the heat or finally to remove the fuel or
oxygen source, effectively removing one of the three elements of fire.

REPUBLIC ACT NO. 9514

SECTION 1. This Act shall be known as the “Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008”.
SECTION 2. It is the policy of the State to ensure public safety, promote economic development
through the prevention and suppression of all kinds, of destructive fires, and promote the
professionalization of the fire service as a profession. Towards this end, the State shall enforce all laws,
rules and regulations to ensure adherence to standard fire prevention and safety measures, and promote
accountability in the fire protection and prevention service.
SECTION 3. Definition of Terms. ‑ As used in this Fire Code, the following words and phrases shall
mean and be construed as indicated:
Abatement ‑ Any act that would remove or neutralize a fire hazard.
Administrator ‑ Any person who acts as agent of the owner and manages the use of a building for him
Blasting Agent ‑ Any material or mixture consisting of a fuel and oxidizer used to set off explosives.
2009lawsprem
Cellulose Nitrate or Nitro Cellulose ‑ A highly combustible and explosive compound produced by the
reaction of nitric acid with a cellulose material.
Cellulose Nitrate Plastic (Pyroxylin) ‑ Any plastic substance, materials or compound having cellulose
nitrate (nitro cellulose) as base.
Combustible Flammable or Inflammable ‑ Descriptive of materials that are easily set on fire.
Combustible Fiber ‑ Any readily ignitable and free burning fiber such as cotton, oakum, rags, waste
cloth, waste paper, kapok, hay, straw, spanish moss, excelsior and other similar materials commonly
used in commerce.
Combustible Liquid ‑ Any liquid having a flash point at or above 37.8°C (100 °F).
Corrosive Liquid ‑ Any liquid which causes fire when in contact with organic matter or with certain
chemicals.
Curtain Board ‑ A vertical panel of non-combustible or fire resistive materials attached to and extending
below the bottom chord of the roof trusses, to divide the underside of the roof into separate
compartments so that heat and smoke will be directed upwards to a roof vent.
Cryogenic ‑ Descriptive of any material which by its nature or as a result of its reaction with other
elements produces a rapid drop in temperature of the immediate surroundings.
Damper ‑ A normally open device installed inside air duct system which automatically closes to restrict
the passage of smoke or fire.
Distillation ‑ The process of first raising the temperature in separate the more volatile from the less
volatile parts and then cooling and condensing the resulting vapor so as to produce a nearly purified
substance.
Duct System ‑ A continuous passageway for the transmission of air.
Dust ‑ A finely powdered substance which, when mixed with air in the proper proportion and ignited
will cause an explosion.
Electrical Arc ‑ An extremely hot luminous bridge formed by passage of an electric current across a
space between two conductors or terminals due to the incandescence of the conducting vapor.
Ember ‑ A hot piece or lump that remains after a material has partially burned, and is still oxidizing
without the manifestation of flames.
Finishes ‑ Materials used as final coating of a surface for ornamental or protective purposes.
Fire ‑ The active principle of burning, characterized by the heat and light of combustion.
Fire Trap ‑ A building unsafe in case of fire because it will burn easily or because it lacks adequate exits
or fire escapes.
Fire Alarm ‑ Any visual or audible signal produced by a device or system to warn the occupants of the
building or firefighting elements of the presence or danger of fire to enable them to undertake immediate
action to save life and property and to suppress the fire.
Fire Door ‑ A fire resistive door prescribed for openings in fire separation walls or partitions.
Fire Hazard ‑ Any condition or act which increases or may cause an increase in the probability of the
occurrence of fire, or which may obstruct, delay, hinder or interfere with fire fighting operations and the
safeguarding of life and property.
Fire Lane ‑ The portion of a roadway or public-way that should be kept opened and unobstructed at all
times for the expedient operation of fire fighting units.
Fire Protective and Fire Safety Device ‑ Any device intended for the protection of buildings or persons
to include, but not limited to, built-in protection system such as sprinklers and other automatic
extinguishing system, detectors for heat, smoke and combustion products and other warning system
components, personal protective equipment such as fire blankets, helmets, fire suits, gloves and other
garments that may be put on or worn by persons to protect themselves during fire.
Fire Safety Constructions ‑ Refers to design and installation of walls, barriers, doors, windows, vents,
means of egress etc. integral to and incorporated into a building or structure in order to minimize danger
to life from fire, smoke, fumes or panic before the building is evacuated. These features are also
designed to achieve, among others, safe and rapid evacuation of people through means of egress on
construction which are sealed from smoke or fire, the confinement of fire or smoke in the room or floor
of origin and delay their spread to other parts of the building by means of smoke sealed and fire resistant
doors, walls and floors. It shall also mean to include the treatment of buildings components or contents
with flame retardant chemicals.
Flash Point ‑ The minimum temperature at which any material gives off vapor in sufficient
concentration to form an ignitable mixture with air.
Forcing ‑ A process where a piece of metal is heated prior to changing its shape or dimensions.
Fulminate ‑ A kind of stable explosive compound which explodes by percussion.
Hazardous Operation/Process ‑ Any act of manufacturing, fabrication, conversion, etc., that uses or
produces materials which are likely to cause fires or explosions.
Horizontal Exit ‑ Passageway from one building to another or through or around a wall in approximately
the same floor level.
Hose Box ‑ A box or cabinet where fire hoses, valves and other equipment are stored and arranged for
fire fighting.
Hose Reel ‑ A cylindrical device turning on an axis around which a fire hose is wound and connected
Hypergolic Fuel ‑ A rocket or liquid propellant which consist of combinations of fuels and oxidizers
which ignite spontaneously on contact with each other
Industrial Baking and Drying ‑ The industrial process of subjecting materials to heat for the purpose of
removing solvents or moisture from the same, and/or to fuse certain chemical salts to form a uniform
glazing on the surface of materials being treated.
Jumper ‑ A piece of metal or an electrical conductor used to bypass a safety device in an electrical
system.
Occupancy ‑ The purpose for which a building or portion thereof is used or intended to be used.
Occupant ‑ Any person actually occupying and using a building or portions thereof by virtue of a lease
contract with the owner or administrator or by permission or sufferance of the latter.
Organic Peroxide ‑ A strong oxidizing organic compound which releases oxygen readily. It causes fire
when in contact with combustible materials especially under conditions of high temperature.
Overloading ‑ The use of one or more electrical appliances or devices which draw or consume electrical
current beyond the designed capacity of the existing electrical system.
Owner ‑ The person who holds the legal right of possession or title to a building or real property.
Oxidizing Material ‑ A material that readily yields oxygen in quantities sufficient to stimulate or support
combustion.
Pressurized or Forced Draft Burning Equipment ‑ Type of burner where the fuel is subjected to pressure
prior to discharge into the combustion chamber and/or which includes fans or other provisions for the
introduction of air at above normal atmospheric pressure into the same combustion chamber.
Public Assembly Building ‑ Any building or structure where fifty (50) or more people congregate,
gather, or assemble for any purpose.
Public Way ‑ Any street, alley or other strip of land unobstructed from the ground to the sky, deeded,
dedicated or otherwise permanently appropriated for public use.
Pyrophoric ‑ Descriptive of any substance that ignites spontaneously when exposed to air.
Refining ‑ A process where impurities and/or deleterious materials are removed from a mixture in order
to produce a pure element or compound. It shall also refer to partial distillation and electrolysis.
Self-closing Doors ‑ Automatic closing doors that are designed to confine smoke and heat and delay the
spread of fire.
Smelting ‑ Melting or fusing of metallic ores or compounds so as to separate impurities from pure
metals.
Sprinkler System ‑ An integrated network of hydraulically designed piping installed in a building,
structure or area with outlets arranged in a systematic pattern which automatically discharges water
when activated by heat or combustion products from a fire.
Standpipe System ‑ A system of vertical pipes in a building to which fire hoses can be attached on each
floor, including a system by which water is made available to the outlets as needed.
Vestibule ‑ A passage hall or antechamber between the outer doors and the interior parts of a house or
building.
Vertical Shaft ‑ An enclosed vertical space of passage that extends from floor to floor, as well as from
the base to the top of the building.
SECTION 4. Applicability of the Code. ‑ The provisions of the Fire Code shall apply to all persons and
all private and public buildings, facilities or structures erected or constructed before and after its
effectivity.
SECTION 5. Responsibility for the Enforcement of this Code. ‑ This Code shall be administered and
enforced by the Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), under the direct supervision and control of the Chief of
the Bureau of Fire Protection, through the hierarchy of organization as provided for in Chapter VI of
Republic Act No. 6975. With the approval of the Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local
Government (DILG), the Chief, BFP, is hereby authorized to
a. Issue implementing rules and regulations, and prescribe standards, schedules of fees/fire service
charges and administrative penalties therefor as provided in the pertinent provisions of this Code;
b. Reorganize the BFP as may be necessary and appropriate
c. Support and assist fire volunteers, practitioners and fire volunteer organizations in the country who
shall undergo mandatory fire suppression, inspection, rescue, emergency medical services and related
emergency response trainings and competency evaluations to be conducted by the BFP. In the case of
the fire practitioners, they shall undergo mandatory continuous professional education and competency
evaluation of their expertise, knowledge and skills in the area of fire science, engineering and
technology to be conducted by the.
The BFP may enter into external party agreements for the conduct of trainings, education and evaluation
of fire volunteers, practitioners and fire volunteer organizations, which shall be under the full control
and supervision of the BFP: Provided, however, That during firefighting operations, fire volunteer
organizations shall be under the direct operational control of the fire ground commanders of the BFP;
d. Enter into long term agreement, either through public biddings or negotiations in accordance with the
provisions of Republic Act No. 9184, otherwise known as the Government Procurement Reform Act of
2003, for the acquisition of fire prevention, fire protection and fire fighting investigation, rescue,
paramedics, hazardous material handling equipment, supplies, materials and related technical services
necessary for the fire service;
e. Enter into Memoranda of Agreement with other departments, bureaus, agencies, offices and
corporations of the government, as well as private institutions, in order to define areas of cooperation
and coordination and delineate responsibility on fire prevention education, fire safety, fire prevention,
fire suppression and other matters of common concern;

f. Call on the police, other law enforcement agencies, and local government assistance to render
necessary assistance in the enforcement of this Code;
g. Designate a fire safety inspector through his/her duly authorized representative, who shall conduct an
inspection of every building or structure within his area of responsibility at least once a year and every
time the owner, administrator or occupant shall renew his/her business permit or permit to operate;
No occupancy permit, business or permit to operate shall be issued without securing a Fire Safety
Inspection Certificate (FSIC) from the Chief, BFP, or his/her duly authorized representative;
h. Inspect at reasonable time, any building, structure, installation or premises for dangerous or hazardous
conditions or materials as set forth in this Code, provided that in case of single family dwelling, an
inspection must be upon the consent of the occupant or upon lawful order from the proper court. The
Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative shall order the owner/occupant to remove
hazardous materials and/or stop hazardous operation/process in accordance with the standards set by this
Code or its implementing rules or regulations or other pertinent laws;
i. Where conditions exist and are deemed hazardous to life and property, to order the owner/occupant of
any building or structure to summarily abate such hazardous conditions;
j. Require the building owner/occupant to submit plans and specifications, and other pertinent
documents of said building to ensure compliance with applicable codes and standards; an
k. Issue a written notice to the owner and/or contractor to stop work on portion of any work due to
absence, or in violation of approved plans and specifications, permit and/or clearance or certification as
approved by the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative. The notice shall state the nature of
the violation and no work shall be continued on that portion until the violation had been corrected.
SECTION 6. Technical Staff. ‑ The Chief, BFP shall constitute a technical staff of highly qualified
persons who are knowledgeable on fire prevention, fire safety, and fire suppression. They may be drawn
not only from the organic members of the BFP and other government offices and agencies, but also from
other sources in the latter case, they will either be appointed into the service or hired as consultants in
accordance with law. The technical staff shall study, review and evaluate latest developments and
standards on fire technology; prepare plans/programs, on fire safety, prevention and suppression and
evaluate implementation thereof; develop programs on the professionalization of the fire service;
coordinate with appropriate government and private institutions for the offering of college courses on
fire technology and fire protection engineering; propose amendments to the Fire Code; advise the Chief,
BFP on any matter brought to his attention; and perform such other functions as directed on any matter
brought to his attention and perform such other functions as directed by higher authorities.
SECTION 7. Inspections, Safety Measures, Fire Safety, Constructions and Protective and/or Warning
Systems. ‑ As may be defined and provided in the rules and regulations, owners, administrators or
occupants of buildings, structures and their premises or facilities and other responsible persons shall be
required to comply with the following, as may be appropriate:
a) Inspection Requirement ‑ A fire safety inspection shall be conducted by the Chief, BFP or his duly
authorized representative as prerequisite to the grants of permits and/or licenses by local governments
and other government agencies concerned, for the:
(1) Use or occupancy of buildings, structures, facilities or their premises including the installation or fire
protection and fire safety equipment, and electrical system in any building structure or facility; and

(2) Storage, handling and/or use of explosives or of combustible, flammable, toxic and other hazardous
materials;
b) Safety Measures for Hazardous Materials ‑ Fire safety measures shall be required for the
manufacture, storage, handling and/or use of hazardous materials involving
(1) cellulose nitrate plastic of any kind;
(2) combustible fibers;
(3) cellular materials such as foam, rubber, sponge rubber and plastic foam;
(4) flammable and combustible liquids or gases of any classification;
(5) flammable paints, varnishes, stains and organic coatings;
(6) high-piled or widely spread combustible stock;
(7) metallic magnesium in any form;
(8) corrosive liquids, oxidizing materials, organic peroxide, nitromethane, ammonium nitrate, or any
amount of highly toxic, pyrophoric, hypergolic, or cryogenic materials or poisonous gases as well as
material compounds which when exposed to heat or flame become a fire conductor, or generate
excessive smoke or toxic gases;
(9) blasting agents, explosives and special industrial explosive materials, blasting caps, black powder,
liquid nitro-glycerine, dynamite, nitro cellulose, fulminates of any kind, and plastic explosives
containing ammonium salt or chlorate;
(10) firework materials of any kind or form;
(11) matches in commercial quantities;
(12) hot ashes, live coals and embers;
(13) mineral, vegetable or animal oils and other derivatives/by-products;
(14) combustible waste materials for recycling or resale;
(15) explosive dusts and vapors; and
(16) agriculture, forest, marine or mineral products which may undergo spontaneous combustion;
(17) any other substance with potential to cause harm to persons, property or the environment because of
one or more of the following: a) The chemical properties of the substance; b) The physical properties of
the substance; c) The biological properties of the substance. Without limiting the definition of hazardous
material, all dangerous goods, combustible liquids and chemicals are hazardous materials
c) Safety Measures for Hazardous Operation/Processes ‑ Fire safety measures shall be required for the
following hazardous operation/processes:
(1) welding or soldering;
(2) industrial baking and drying;
(3) waste disposal;

(4) pressurized/forced-draft burning equipment;

(5) smelting and forging;
(6) motion picture projection using electrical arc lamps;
(7) refining, distillation and solvent extraction; an
(8) such other operations or processes as may hereafter be prescribed in the rules and regulations.
d) Provision on Fire Safety Construction, Protective and Warning System ‑ Owners, occupants or
administrator or buildings, structures and their premises or facilities, except such other buildings or
structures as may be exempted in the rules and regulations to be promulgated under Section 5 hereof,
shall incorporate and provide therein fire safety construction, protective and warning system, and shall
develop and implement fire safety programs, to wit:
(1) Fire protection features such as sprinkler systems, hose boxes, hose reels or standpipe systems and
other firefighting equipment;
(2) Fire alarm systems;
(3) Fire walls to separate adjoining buildings, or warehouses and storage areas from other occupancies in
the same building;
(4) Provisions for confining the fire at its source such as fire resistive floors and walls extending up to
the next floor slab or roof, curtain boards and other fire containing or stopping components;
(5) Termination of all exits in an area affording safe passage to a public way or safe dispersal area;
(6) Stairway, vertical shafts, horizontal exits and other means of egress sealed from smoke and heat;
(7) A fire exit plan for each floor of the building showing the routes from each other room to appropriate
exits, displayed prominently on the door of such room;
(8) Self-closing fire resistive doors leading to corridors;
(9) Fire dampers in centralized air-conditioning ducts;
(10) Roof vents for use by fire fighters; and
(11) Properly marked and lighted exits with provision for emergency lights to adequately illuminate exit
ways in case of power failure.
SECTION 8. Prohibited Acts. ‑ The following are declared as prohibited act and omission:
a. Obstructing or blocking the exit ways or across to buildings clearly marked for fire safety purposes,
such as but not limited to aisles in interior rooms, any part of stairways, hallways, corridors, vestibules,
balconies or bridges leading to a stairway or exit of any kind, or tolerating or allowing said violations;
b. Constructing gates, entrances and walkways to building components and yards, and temporary or
permanent structures on public ways, which obstruct the orderly and easy passage of fire fighting
vehicles and equipment;
c. Prevention, interference or obstruction of any operation of the fire service, or of duly organized and
authorized fire brigades;

d. Obstructing designated fire lanes or access to fire hydrants;

e. Overcrowding or admission of persons beyond the authorized capacity in movie houses, theaters,
coliseums, auditoriums or other public assembly buildings, except in other assembly areas on the ground
floor with open sides or open doors sufficient to provide safe exits;
f. Locking fire exits during period when people are inside the building;
g. Prevention or obstruction of the automatic closure of fire doors or smoke partitions or dampers;
h. Use of fire protective or fire fighting equipment of the fire service other than for fire fighting except
in other emergencies where their use are justified;
i. Giving false or malicious fire alarms;
j. Smoking in prohibited areas as may be determined by fire service, or throwing of cigars, cigarettes,
burning objects in places which may start or cause fire;
k. Abandoning or leaving a building or structure by the occupant or owner without appropriate safety
measures;
l. Removing, destroying, tampering or obliterating any authorized mark, seal, sign or tag posted or
required by the fire service for fire safety in any building, structure or processing equipment; and
m. Use of jumpers or tampering with electrical wiring or overloading the electrical system beyond its
designated capacity or such other practices that would tend to undermine the fire safety features of the
electrical system.
SECTION 9. Violations, Penalties and Abatement of Fire Hazards. ‑ Fire hazards shall be abated
immediately. The Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative, upon the report that a violation
of this Code or other pertinent laws, rules and regulations is being committed, shall issue notice/order to
comply to the owner, administrator, occupant or other person responsible for the condition of the
building or structure, indicating among other things, the period within which compliance shall be
effected, which shall be within ten (10) to fifteen (15) days after the receipt of the notice/order,
depending on the reasonableness to adequately comply with the same.
If after the lapse of the aforesaid period, the owner, administrator, occupant or other responsible persons
failed to comply, the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative shall put up a sign in front of
 the building or structure that it is a fire hazard. Specifically, the notice shall bear the words
“WARNING: THIS BUILDING/STRUCTURE IS A FIRE HAZARD”, which shall remain posted until
such time that the owner, administrator, occupant or other persons responsible for the condition of the
building, structure and their premises or facilities abate the same, but such period shall not exceed
fifteen (15) days from the lapse of the initial period given in the notice/order to comply.
Finally, with the failure of the owner, administrator, occupant or other persons responsible for the
condition of the building, structure and their premises or facilities to comply within the period specified
above, the Chief, BFP may issue order for such abatement. If the owner, administrator or occupant of
buildings, structure and their premises or facilities does not abate the same within the period fixed in
said order, the building, structure, premises or facilities shall be ordered closed by the Chief, BFP or
his/her duly authorized representative notwithstanding any permit clearance or certificate earlier issued
by the local authorities.

Any building or structure assessed and declared by the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized
representative as a firetrap on account of the gravity or palpability of the violation or is causing clear and
present imminent fire danger to adjoining establishments and habitations shall be declared a public
nuisance, as defined in the Civil Code of the Philippines in a notice to be issued to the owner,
administrator, occupant or other person responsible for the condition of the building, structure and their
premises or facilities. If the assessed value of the nuisance or the amount to be spent in abating the same
is not more than One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00), the owner, administrator or occupant
thereof shall abate the hazard within Fifteen (15) days, or if the assessed value is more than One hundred
thousand pesos (P100,000.00), within thirty (30) days from receipt of the order declaring said building
or structure a public nuisance; otherwise, the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative shall
forthwith cause its summary abatement. Failure to comply within five (5) days from the receipt of the
notice shall cause the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative to put up a sign in front of the
building or structure, at or near the entrance of such premises, notifying the public that such building or
structure is a “FIRE TRAP”, which shall remain until the owner, administrator, occupant or other person
responsible for the condition of the building, structure and their premises or facilities abate the same
within the specified period.
Summary abatement as used herein shall mean all corrective measures undertaken to abate hazards
which shall include, but not limited to remodeling, repairing, strengthening, reconstructing, removal and
demolition, either partial or total, of the building or structure. The expenses incurred by the government
for such summary abatement shall be borne by the owner, administrator or occupant. These expenses
shall constitute a prior lien upon such property.

MODULE 3 DISCUSSIONS: FIRE FIGHTING OPERATIONS AND PROCEDURE FIRE

FIGHTING OPERATIONS AND EXTINGUISHMENT – MIDTERM PERIOD
Fire Fighting is an activity intended to save lives and property. It is one of the most important
emergency services in a community. Fire fighters battle fires that break out in homes, factories, office buildings,
shops, and other places. Fire fighters risk their lives to save people and protect property from fires.
The people who work as fire fighters also help others who are involved in many kinds’ pf emergencies
besides fires. For example, fire fighters rescue people who may be trapped in cars or vehicles after and accident.
They aid victims of such disasters as typhoons, floods, landslides, and earthquakes.
 Before the advent of modern fire fighting techniques, fires often destroyed whole settlements. When a fire
broke out, all the people in the community rushed to the scene to help. Today, fire fighting organizations in
most industrialized nations have well trained men and women and a variety of modern fire fighting equipment.
Fire Fighting Operations
Fire fighting operations refers to fire suppression activities. In general, the following procedures should
be observed:
1. PRE-FIRE PLANNING - this activity involves developing and defining systematic course of actions that
maybe performed in order to realize the objectives of fire protection: involves the process of establishing the
SOP in case of fire breaks out.
2. EVALUATION - SIZE UP (on the-spot planning or sizing-up the situation) - this is the process knowing the
emergency situation. It involves mental evaluation by the operation officer-in-charge to determine the
appropriate course of action that provides the highest probability of success.
3. EVACUATION- This the activity of transferring people, livestock, and property away from the burning area
to minimize damage or destruction that the fire might incur in case it propagates to other adjacent buildings.
4. ENTRY - This is the process of accessing the burning structure. Entry maybe done in a forcible manner.
5. RESCUE- This is the operation of removing (extricating), thus saving, people and other livestock from the
burning building and other involved properties, conveying them to a secure place.
6. EXPOSURE- also called cover exposure, this is the activity of securing other buildings near the burning
structure in order to prevent the fire from the extending to another building.
7. CONFINEMENT- This is the activity of restricting the fire at the place (room) were it started: the process of
preventing fire from extending from another section or form one section to another section of the involved
building.
8. VENTILATION - The operation purposely conducted to displace toxic gases. It includes the process of
displacing the heated atmosphere within the involved building with normal air from outside atmosphere.
9. SALVAGE- The activity of protecting the properties from preventable damage other than the fire. The steps
are a) remove the material outside the burning area, and b) protecting or cover the materials by using tarpaulins
(cotton canvass treated with water proofing).
10. EXTINGUISHMENT - This is the process of putting out the main body of fire by using the 4 general
methods of fire extinguishments.
11. OVERHAUL - This is the complete and detailed check of the structure and all materials therein to eliminate
conditions that may cause re-flash; involves complete possibilities of re-ignition or rekindling.
12. FIRE SCENE INVESTIGATION - This is the final stage of fire suppression activities. It is an inquiry
conducted to know or determine the origin and cause of fire.

FIRE PROCEDURE
What are the General Operating Procedures in Fire Extinguishment?
The general operating procedures in using a fire extinguisher may be modified by the acronym PASS.
P – Pull the pin at the top of the extinguisher that keeps the handle from being pressed.
Press the plastic or thin wire inspection band.
A – Aim the nozzle or outlet towards the fire. Some hose assemblies are dipped to the Extinguisher body.
Released it and then point at the base of the fire.
S – Squeeze the handle above carrying handle to discharge the extinguishing agent inside. The handle can be
released to stop the discharge at any time.
S- Sweep the nozzle sideways at the base of the flame to disperse the extinguishing agent.

After the fire is out, probe for remaining smoldering hot spots or possible re-flash of flammable liquids. Make
sure the fire is out before leaving the burned area.

The Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP)

Republic Act # 6975, the DILG Act of 1990 (Chapter 4, Section 53-59) created the Bureau of Fire
Protection (BFP) to be responsible for the prevention and suppression of all destructive fires and to enforce laws
on fire.
Fire Protection is the descriptive term referring to the various methods used by the bureau to stop,
extinguish and control destructive fire for eventual prevention of loss of life and property. It has the following
objectives: To prevent destructive fire from starting, To extinguish (stop or put out) on going destructive fire,
To confine a destructive fire at the place where it began, To prevent loss of life and property when fire starts.
Fire Prevention and Suppression refers to the various safety measures utilized to stop harmful or
destructive fires from starting.
The laws related with the fire prevention and fire protection in the Philippine setting includes PD #
1185, Fire Code of the Philippines (26 August 1977), PD # 1096, Building Code of the Philippine (19 February
1977).
The Bureau of Fire protection is composed of well-trained fire fighters. In fighting fires, they bring with
them ladders and pumps. Additional specialist vehicles can provide turntable ladders, hydraulic platforms, extra
water, foam, and specialist appliances for hazardous incidents.
In some countries, such as the United States, fire-fighting units are divided into engine companies and
ladder companies. Engine companies operate trucks called engines, which carry a pump and hoses for spraying
water on a fire. Ladder companies use ladder trucks, which carry ladders of various lengths. Ladder trucks also
have a hydraulically extended ladder or elevating platform to rescue people through windows or to spray water
from a raised position.
Fire fighters in the Philippines handle many types of fires. Each type requires a different plan of action to put
it out. For example, the methods used to fight a building fire differ greatly from those used to fight a forest or
grassland fire.
Factor Affecting Fire Protection and Control
Fire protection and control is affected by the accumulation of fire hazards in a building or area.
Fire Hazard is a condition or act that increases or may cause increase in the probability that fire will
occur or which may obstruct, delay, hinder or interfere with fire fighting operations and the safeguarding of life
and property.
 Conditions of Fire Hazards
1. Existence of dangerous or unlawful amount of combustible or explosives in the building not designated
to store such materials.
2. Defective or improperly installed facilities/equipment.
3. Lack of adequate exit facilities.
4. Obstruction at fire escapes or other designated opening for fire fighters.
5. Dangerous accumulation of rubbish waste and other highly combustible materials.
6. Accumulation of dust in ventilation system or of grease in the kitchen.
7. Building under repair.
8. Very old building is primarily made of combustible materials.

Fire Prevention and Public Safety

As mentioned earlier, Fire Prevention is a term for the many safety measures used to keep harmful fires
from starting. Fires not only cause extensive damage to valuable property, but also responsible for lager
numbers of deaths.
BASIC FIRE INVESTIGATION
In the Philippines, the Bureau of Fire Protection is the main government agency responsible for the
prevention and suppression of all destructive fires on buildings, houses and other structures, forest, land
transportation vehicles and equipment, ships or vessels docked at piers or major seaports, petroleum industry
installation, plane crashes and other similar incidents, as well as the enforcement of the Fire Code and other
related laws. It has the major power to investigate all causes of fires and necessary, file the proper complaints
with the proper authority that has jurisdiction over the case (R.A. no. 6975, sec 54).

Why Fires should be investigated?

The very reason why fires should be investigated is to determine the cause of the fire in order to prevent
similar occurrences. The determination of the origin and cause of fire is arrived at only after a thorough
investigation. Since basic investigation is prelude to the discovery of the true cause of the fire, and
understanding of the chemistry of fire and its attendant behavior should be a concern for successful
investigation.
Who are qualified to investigate fires?
A fire investigator should have the following traits.
1. Possession of knowledge of investigational techniques.
2. He should have an insight of human behavior.
3. He should have a first hand knowledge of the chemistry of fire and its behavior.
4. He should be resourceful.
Is Fire investigation Complex and Unique?
Fire investigation is complex and unique because of the following reasons:
1. Fire destroys evidence
2. If it is Arson, it is planned, motivated and committed is discreet.
3. Rarely can there be an eyewitness in Arson.
What are the roles of Firemen in Fire Investigation?
Firemen are usually at the crime scene ahead of the fire investigators. Hence, they are valuable sources of
information. They are so-called “Eyes and Ears” of the police before, during and after the fire has been placed
under control. The information taken from them may be categorize as:
1. Information attainable or developed prior to the arrival at the scene.
2. Information available to the firemen at the scene.
3. Information available during overhaul and thereafter.
What does a firefighter do?

Full-time firefighters help protect the public in emergency situations. They respond to a wide variety of
calls: as well as fires, they assist at car crashes, chemical spills, flooding and water rescue.

In addition to attending emergency call-outs, the job involves:

• Using sophisticated firefighting and rescue equipment.

• Inspecting and maintaining equipment between uses.
• Promoting fire safety through talks, advice and training sessions.
• Inspecting building for fire safety and enforcing safety standards.
• Performing practice drills.
• Working with police and ambulance service personnel.
• Undertaking physical and academic training.

There are two main divisions of firefighter:

Full-time professional firefighters and retained firefighters. Apart from training, retained firefighters only
attend the fire station during call-outs and usually have another full-time job. They're employed in rural areas
and must live or work within five minutes of the station. Around 80 per cent of firefighters are retained.

ORGANIZATION AND TRAINING OF FIRE BRIGADES

A. All business establishments employing at least fifty (50) persons shall, in addition to the requirements
set forth under section 7 of ra 9514 for the grant of fire safety inspection certificate (fsic), establish an
organization of fire brigade to deal with fire and other related emergencies.
The HEAD OF THE COMPANY, through its duly designated SAFETY OFFICER shall evaluate the
potential magnitude of a fire emergency within the company, and the availability of firefighting
assistance from the BFP to determine the nature of the organization to be established.

B. For buildings having various occupancies, the BUILDING ADMINISTRATOR and/or OWNER shall
initiate the organization of a fire brigade in the premises irrespective of the number of occupants.

C. In cases where a fire brigade is already established for a building, said fire brigade shall be sufficient
to comply with the requirements of para “A” of this Section.

D. All barangays shall likewise endeavor to organize their own Fire Brigades.
 The organization of company fire brigades shall consist of the FIRE BRIGADE CHIEF, which shall be
designated by the head of the company, and shall be assisted by selected personnel. In companies where
more persons are available, they must be organized into teams to function as a fire brigade established
according to its needs. The organization shall be such that a fire brigade is on duty or on call at all times.

MODULE 4: BULDING CODE AND BUILDING REQUIREMENTS

Building Code – A standard rules for safety in the construction of buildings. Building codes vary in their fire-
resistance requirements in accordance with the occupancy classification.

BUILDING CODE REQUIREMENTS:

1. Intended Occupancy and Use

2. Life Safety
3. Fixed Fire Protection System
4. Spacing of Structures
5. Height Requirements
6. Fire Retarding Features

Intended Occupancy and Use

 A building design is based upon the occupancy of the individual structure, considering both the
combustibility of the contents and the human factors of occupancy. Buildings wherein large occupants
are assembled such as dormitories, schools, hospitals, where crowds may generate panic hazards, call for
a higher and greater degree of fire safety protection than do warehouses and buildings which are less
populated.
Buildings that contain high combustible materials call for a greater degree of resistance in the structure.

Life Safety

The provision of adequate exits is the most important feature in designing a building for life safety.
Once fire is notified, occupants can leave the building in the least possible time through exits free from
fire, heat, and smoke.
Although panic in a burning building may be uncontrollable, it can be eased with the measures designed
to help prevent panic- an example of this is the exit signs. Panic seldom develops in a burning building
as long as the occupants are moving towards exits that have no obstruction in the path travel.
The life safety factor is affected by many building and features-designs and feature that prevent, reduce
or retard the spread of the fire such as: fire stops, fire walls, and fire doors.

Fire safety practitioner reforms

Endorsing plans and specifications for relevant fire safety systems. endorsing fire safety performance
solution reports. ... assessing the ongoing performance of essential fire safety measures in a building and
endorsing the annual fire safety statement

Fixed Fire Protection System

Installed will be in accordance with sound economical and engineering practices. These systems insure
the maximum life safety-or maximum degree of property protection where the size, type of construction,
occupancy, or other conditions create severe monetary fire-loss potential.

Spacing of Structures

Planning and construction of an adequate separation of buildings and structures is very important to
prevent the spread of fire from an adjacent building or from area to area. Spacing requirements that
restrict types of occupancies or specified area have an important bearing upon fire safety. Consideration
will be given to convenience, efficiency, and savings. When buildings have different occupancies and
different types of construction are adjacent, maximum spacing requirements have to be observed.

Height Requirements

Owing to the life hazard involved, it is a good practice to limit the height of structures that have an
unusually high degree of combustibility.
The height of buildings of masonry or concrete wall and wood construction is generally limited to a
height assumed to be the maximum at which the fire departments can operate and fight fire effectively,
working from the street level. The operational limit is usually three or four stories. Wood frame
construction is generally given lower height limits. Fire resistive buildings are commonly permitted
without any height limit, on the theory that the structural integrity of the buildings will be maintained.
Fire Retarding Features

While a facility is still being designed, everything possible should be planned and done to make the
facility eventually fire safe. Fire retarding features must be specified in the plans. For the safety of
personnel, important provisions in preventing the spread of fire (both vertically and horizontally in
buildings should be constructed).

Fire safety Enforcement functions

Prevention and suppression of all destructive fires; Enforcement of the Revised Implementing Rules and
Regulations (RIRR) of the Republic Act No. 9514 otherwise known as the Fire Code of the Philippines (PD
1185) and other related laws; Investigate the causes of fires and if necessary, file a complaint to the city or
provincial prosecutor relating to the case; In events of national emergency, will assist the military on the orders
of the President of the Philippines; And establish at least one fire station with all personnel and equipment per
municipality and provincial capital.

PRE-FIRE PLAN

It is a process of an advanced and organized planning of possible firefighting operations in a particular

building or groups of buildings.
Fire departments are organized to protect lives and property from fire within the areas they service.
Common sense dictates that firefighters particularly the senior fire officer should have to analyze the
problems encountered intelligently to perform an efficient and effective job. Fire defenses should be
organized to prevent as many fires as possible from occurring, while at the same time be prepared to
combat , in an organized way, those that cannot be prevented.

PURPOSE AND REQUIREMENTS FOR PREFIRE PLANS

Plans are prepared to explain procedures and geographically important information required during the
fire suppression operations.
Building pre fire plans are carried on the assistant fire chiefs vehicle and each first run pumper or fire
engine.
Aircraft pre fire plans are carried on each fire chiefs and assistant fire chiefs vehicle. Copies of each pre
fire plan (building and aircraft) are maintained in the fire alarm communications center.
The first thing to be considered in any pre-fire planning is the specific risk that might be involved for
each physical situation such as:
• The streets, roads, and alleys between the fire station and the scene of the fire;
• Location of the water supply and the volume and pressure available;
• Exposure is also be given consideration.

Factors to be Considered in Pre-fire Planning

• To recognize the specific problems involved when a fire occurs in a given building;
• The questions of availability of equipment;
 • The availability of manpower

BASIC INFORMATION CONTAINS IN PREFIRE PLAN

• Data on life hazards in each building, including where people sleep, the location of doors, windows,
stairways, and fire escapes; an outline of the most logical means of rescue
• Information on interior and exterior exposures and how best to protect them, high value storage, the
placement of fire streams, and similar factors. Distances involved should be indicated.
• Consideration of special building or facility hazards such as the location of flammable stores, hazardous
operations, and the area most likely to be the origin of fire.
• The location of hydrants or other water sources, indicating the amount of water available and the
pressure; also the necessary lengths of ladders and their proper placements to reach the required areas.
• The best approaches to the buildings, apparatus that will respond, most advantageous hose-laying
procedures, and placement of streams.
• The cutting-off of utilities, including electric power and gas supply, indicating how and by whom it is to
be done.
• The effect of seasonal changes on the accessibility to a building and the response time.
• Installed fire protection or detection system, including locations and procedures for connecting pumpers
to installed extinguishing system.

The fire safety measures on selected division

Fires are the leading causes of home injury and death. Consider:

Approximately one-half of home fire deaths occur in homes without smoke alarms. Most residential fires occur
during the winter months. Alcohol use contributes to an estimated 40% of residential fires. Most victims of fires
die from smoke or toxic gases and not from burns. Cooking is the primary cause of home fires. Smoking is the
leading cause of fire-related deaths. Here's another fact: Despite a fire alarm's piercing sound, children,
teenagers -- even some adults -- can sleep through it. For this reason, it's important to teach everyone in your
home how to escape a late-night fire.

This checklist can help you spot fire hazards in your home. It will also help you prepare your family to
quickly escape a fire:

Smoke Detectors

• Put smoke alarms/detectors in strategic locations in your home, such as the kitchen, near bedrooms, and
near fireplaces or stoves. Install at least one smoke alarm on every floor of your home, including the
basement.
• Replace batteries in smoke detectors once a year. Check your alarm twice a year. A good way to
remember: when daylight saving and standard time change each spring and fall.
• For people with hearing impairments, special smoke alarms with strobes and/or vibration are available.
You can buy these online and through local fire equipment distributors.
• Install new smoke alarms when they are 10 years old or older (sooner if one is damaged or not working).

Fire Prevention Strategy

 • Keep a fire extinguisher near the kitchen and have it checked yearly. Learn how to use it. Put out food or
grease fires in a pan with a lid or another pot.
• Teach children safety rules for matches, fires, electrical outlets, electrical cords, stoves, and chemicals.
Keep matches and flames, such as candles or lanterns, out of the reach of children.
• Buy children's sleepwear made of flame-retardant fabric. Dress children in flame- and fire-retardant
clothing. Older adults need to be careful about wearing clothing with loose material that could catch on
fire.

Family Fire Drills

• Know the emergency number for your fire department; 9-1-1 is in place in most communities, but not
all. Remember to get out first if there is a fire, then call for help once safely outside.
• Teach children who are old enough to understand to stop, drop, and roll if their clothing catches on fire
so they can help put out the flames and avoid serious burns.
• Let children help plan a fire escape route. Choose a meeting place outside the home where everyone will
gather, and be sure they know never to go back inside a burning building.
• Teach children to always keep stairways and exits clear of furniture, toys, and other obstructions that
could slow your escape.
• Practice using your escape route in family fire drills at least twice a year. Make sure babysitters know
the route, too.
• Practice what it would be like to escape through smoke by getting down on hands and knees and
crawling below the smoke to the nearest exit. Cooler air will be near the floor.
• Once kids have mastered the plan, hold a drill while everyone is sleeping. This will let you know if they
will wake up or sleep through the smoke alarm. Even those who wake up may be groggy or move
slowly.

Potential Fire Hazards

Cooking Equipment

• Keep an eye on anything you're cooking if the setting is higher than "warm."
• Keep potholders, plastic utensils, towels, or other non-cooking equipment away from the stove, because
these items can catch fire.
• Roll up or fasten long, loose sleeves while cooking.
• Store candy or cookies away from the stove so kids won't be tempted to climb on it to get to the treats.
• Cigarettes, Lighters and Matches
• Smoking materials are the leading cause of home fire deaths. The tools used to light them are also a fire
hazard, so:
• Keep lighters and matches in a locked cabinet out of sight and reach of children, and remind children
that they are tools for adults, not toys.
• Make sure that cigarette butts are fully extinguished before emptying ashtrays. Never place a cigarette
butt directly into a trashcan without dousing it with water first.

Furnaces, Fireplaces, and Space Heaters

 • Furnaces should be inspected annually. Keep boxes, paper, and other flammables away from the
furnace. An outdoor shed is better.

There are other potential household fire hazards, so keep in mind that:

• Fireplaces should be protected with screens or tempered glass doors. Keep kindling at least three feet
away from the fireplace. Have the chimney inspected yearly and cleaned if necessary.
• When purchasing an electric space heater, look for the UL mark. Keep at least three feet between the
heater and anything that can burn. Turn the heater off before falling asleep or leaving the area you are
heating.

Wood-Burning Stoves

• Make sure wood-burning stoves are properly installed and meet your town's building and fire codes.
• Do not burn trash or other items in the stove. Never use gasoline or other flammable liquids to start a
stove fire. Burn coal only if recommended by the manufacturer.
• Remember that wood and coal stoves get very hot. If you have young children living in or visiting your
home, supervise them carefully and consider installing a temporary stove guard to help prevent burns.
• Follow stove instructions and cleaning and maintenance requirements.
• Have chimneys inspected each year and cleaned, if necessary, by a professional chimney sweep to avoid
dangerous creosote buildup.
• Use an approved stone board under your wood or coal stove to protect the floor from heat and stray
embers.

Kerosene Heaters

• Learn local and state codes and regulations about the use of kerosene heaters. These heaters are illegal
for home use in some areas.
• Use kerosene only. Never use gasoline in your heater. Gasoline is highly volatile, greatly increasing the
risk of fire. Refill kerosene heaters outside after they have cooled down.
• If a flare-up occurs, activate the manual shut-off switch and call your fire department.
• Place the heater at least three feet away from anything that can burn and in a low traffic area so it will
not be knocked over or trap you in the event of a fire.
• Keep the room ventilated (a door open, or a window ajar) to prevent an indoor air pollution problem.

Gas-Fired Space Heaters

• These heaters should not be used in small, enclosed areas -- especially bedrooms -- because there is
potential for explosion or carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Follow the manufacturer's instructions for lighting the pilot. Otherwise, gas vapors can accumulate and
ignite, burning your hand or face.
• Light a match to ignite the pilot before you turn on the gas; it will prevent gas buildup. Keep flammable
materials away from gas-fired appliances.
• Do not use a propane heater (LP) with a gas cylinder.

Other Hazards
 • Use proper fuses in electrical boxes, do not overload outlets, and use insulated and grounded electrical
cords.
• Keep trash cleaned up in attics, basements, and garages.
• Be careful with gas equipment such as lawn mowers, snow blowers, and chain saws.
• Avoid fireworks. Think of safety first when dealing with fireworks.

Module 5: NATURAL COVER FIRE PREFIRE PLANNING – SEMI FINAL PERIOD

Natural cover fires or forest fire, like each of the other types of fires, present some unusual problems to the
firefighter. The huge and tremendous areas involved and the number of men needed to combat this type of fire
makes it impossible to develop completely an adequate prefire plans. Limited water supplies require specialized
tactics and equipment.

Hand tools and Manpower rather than motorized vehicles are the backbone of natural cover firefighting.

Size-Up – The most important consideration in fighting a natural cover fire is to choose the proper point from
which to begin the attack. The selection of this starting point must not be made haphazardly; it must be based
upon a careful analysis of the present and future conditions of the fire as determined by fuel conditions, weather
conditions, and terrain.

Steps in the size up of a Natural Cover Fire

1. Determine the size of the fire;

2. Check the wind direction;
3. Find out what kind of fuel the fire is burning and toward
what kind of fuel it is;
4. See if there are any natural barriers nearby to help stop the fire. Such as:
a. streams
b. roads
c. plowed fields
d. burned-out areas.
5. Locate the hotspots, where the fire is burning most intensely, and estimate when and where it may jump
or throw sparks into a new supply of fuel;
6. Set-up personnel evacuation procedures.

Attack

The aim of the initial attack is to stop the spread of the fire as quickly as possible. If there are numerous spot
fires ahead of the main blaze which may "take off", they will need the first attention. Otherwise, as the general
rule, the attack should begin at the point or points where the fire is spreading or will spread most rapidly under
sever conditions. Such point where should be found on the side of a hill adjacent to the accumulations of highly
flammable fuel, on the uphill side of the fire steep slope, or on the side of the fire which being or will be driven
by the prevailing wind.
Attacking a fire directly at its head is possible only when the fire is not advancing rapidly, and when the large of
men are available. Working directly in front of a rapidly advancing fire is hazardous, and there is always the
possibility that the fire mat outflanks in the control lines.

NATURAL COVER FIRES

Natural cover fires involve grass, weeds, grain brush, forest, or any other plant life. Forest fire are the most
dangerous of all natural cover fires from the standpoints of a national problem. It involves more than immediate
monetary loss; this is insignificant compared with the effect on the future water supply and timber supply with
the loss of hunting, fishing, and recreational facilities.

Forest fire are also of great concern to fire protection personnel in that such fires frequently involve farms,
villages, and uptowns. This is the reason; fire protection organizations are called upon to handle both structural
and natural cover fires.

The great majority of natural cover fires are caused by man, as the result of his carelessness. The natural
elements, such as: lightning, the sun and the wind, are responsible for the insignificant remainder.

Careless hunters; campers; fishermen; and frequently local residents account for more fires than any other
causes

Other causes of forest fire include transformation vehicles or locomotives, burning of rubbish, lumber
operations, and arsons.

The most effective means of combating this fire should be initiated before it actually occurs is through the use
of medium or factors, such as: Law Enforcement, Restrictions, and Education.

Prompt discovery of Natural cover fires is essential in achieving quick control and limiting damage. In areas
where efficient detection, control, and extinguishing organizations are present, fire rarely get out of control and
damaged is kept to a minimum.

An adequate system of trails and roads, properly distributed, built, and maintained through the area, is of utmost
importance in making the fire area reasonably accessible to the firefighting force and equipment.

Roads of proper width are also invaluable as firebreaks that prevent the spread of fire beyond the limited area.
In many instances, it is deemed necessary to clear the permanent firebreaks.

For forest-fire extinguishing by aircraft, the "water-bomb" and other airborne devices are now being used with
great effectiveness.

Training and organization are essential to suppress forest fires successfully. Under extensive emergency
conditions. It is frequently necessary to use all able-bodied personnel within an area. At such time, it is of
utmost importance to have well-trained men available to organize and supervise untrained force. The complete
and extensive training of fire guards and lookout men is paramount.

The equipment used must be Adequate and suited to the immediate environment. This implies that large
vehicles will not be used where roads are narrow and where there are small bridge with a limited capacity.
Areas where the water supply from ponds, lake, small stream is plentiful might advantageously use several
portable pumping units, but these unit would be useless where water is scarce. In some areas water can
equipped with a hand pump are carried on the back of personnel.

Natural cover fires are capable of moving rapidly, especially when the wind velocity is high. The temperature,
or fire line, is the hottest part of the fire. The interior of the fire is a smoldering mass, with comparatively few
flames and with many glowing embers of sparks. Natural cover fires are best controlled along the fire line.

TYPES OF NATURAL COVER FIRES

Natural cover fires are divided into four distinct types. Each of these types of fires is subject to variation in
speed of fire propagation: size, type,, and quantity of fuel involved; and the procedures required for
extinguishments.

1. Ground fires ("undergrowth" or "duff" fires) - Ground fires travel at ground level or below the surface. Dry
leaves humus, peat, and other organic materials that have become the part of a soil.

2. Surface fire - Surface fire burn over grass, weeds, grain, brush, and shrubs. This type of fire travels rapidly if
the wind is high and when the fuel is abundant. The heat is intense but short-lived because of the quick-burning
characteristics of fuels.

3. Crown fire - Crown fire are in the tops of the trees and in a high brush. When the heat generated by flash
fuels at the surface is intense, the fire advances upward on the dried lower limb of trees and continues to burn in
the treetops. This condition occurs mostly in dense forests and then only on steep slopes, on draws in canyons,
or during the high winds. A crown fire is the most feared of all natural cover fires. The enormous flame area
draws the air for hundred of yard from the fireline; this in turn, generates such heat that direct control is
impossible. Indirect method, such as firebreaks (either natural or man-made) and backfiring, are the best means
of controlling large crown fires.

4. Spot fires - Spot fires are started in advance of the heads by windblown sparks or bit of burning material.
They are capable of creating very a dangerous situation. A number of spot fires may merge and create a new
head in advance of the main fire. Men and equipment may be trapped between this fires, and large loses may
result. A well-organized patrol must be constantly on the alert to locate spot fires and get then under control
before extensive damage results.

PARTS OF NATURAL COVER FIRE

The head is the point where the fireline is progressing faster. A natural cover fire may have number of heads,
defending on the type, abundance, and location of the fuel. Fire heads generally travel with the wind; the
stronger the wind, the greater speed of the fire. Because of frequent direction change of the wind, varying types
of quantities of the fuel, and topographic conditions, natural cover fires have irregular perimeters, making
control difficult and often dangerous.
The windward or the upward portion of the fire is called the tail. Usually the tail is in or near in the vicinity of
the origin of the fire. All portion of the fire line between the tail and the various heads and those slower burning
areas between the head are called the flanks.

The rate of burning of this type of fire depends primarily on the velocity of the wind, type and abundance of
fuel, and the general topographic conditions. The heads of the fire travel at a rate portion of the wind velocity.
Wind carries additional oxygen of the fire and increase the rate of burning. The hot air rising of the fire cause
partial vacuum. Cold air, with a fresh supply of oxygen, rushes in at the base. The larger and hotter the fire, the
stronger is the draft created by the fire.

The fire heads move faster at uphill and through draws or canyons than on the level grounds or downhill’s,
other conditions remaining equal. Heads burning uphill dry out and vaporize fuel faster than those burning on
level ground and downhill. The upward rush of cold air acts like a draft in chimney and speed burning
accordingly.

Heads running up draws, or canyons cause the inrush of cold air with a new oxygen supply to be concentrated
in a small area and as a result, the fire propagation rate is greatly increase.

This condition is a similar to a forced draft in a blacksmith's forge, fanning the fire to a greater speed and
intensity.

What to do in combating this type of fire?

1. Never attempt to control a running fire from the uphill direction;

2. Men or equipment should never approach the head of a fire from, when the approach necessitates travel
in a draw, valley, or canyons.

The correct point to begin control is at the tail on the upward side to the fireline, or at the head of the fire
when it reaches a crest and starts its slower, downhill burning.

Methods for Controlling and Extinguishing Various Types of Natural Cover Fires

1. Sectional Method – The sectional method consists of placing a unit on a specific section of the fireline.
Its mission is to stop the progress of the fire, extinguishing it at the fireline, and execute mop-up patrol
work. The unit has the full responsibility for that section of the fireline. This method is best used against
a slow-moving fire.
2. One-Lick Method – It is the faster and easiest method to use on a running fire. A firefighting team is
placed at the location designated as the fireline and ordered to work in a specific direction.

Methods of Natural Cover Fire Control

1. Direct Method of Control – This method is very effective against natural cover fires but can be used
only on moderately hot fires. Either the sectional or the one lick attack may be used.
2. Indirect method of Control – This natural cover fire control method entails the use of firebreaks or
barriers. Natural fire barriers consist of lakes, rivers, creeks, deserts, or bare rock formation.
Firebreaks – Artificial firebreaks are consisting of roads, highways, survey lines, or cleared areas. Specific lines
may be cut to prevent the progress of fires that may break out in the future. Firebreaks must be at least twice as
wide as the height of the surrounding natural cover types. These breaks should be cleared to conform as nearly
possible with the ridge lines and to connect natural barriers. Firebreaks must be cleared of brush and grass to
keep fire from travelling through these flash fuels. Most permanent firebreaks include small trails built in
conjunction with the breaks.

Backfires- Are employed to burn back toward the advancing heads, thus creating a fast break and stopping the
fire because of lack of fuel. Backfires are normally used where suitable network of firebreaks already exists.
Backfiring should not be attempted except on orders of an officer who is fully aware of the existing conditions.
Improper backfiring causes loss of control of the fire, and may trap personnel working on the line. Great
damage and loss of life and equipment may result when backfires are improperly executed.

MODULE 6: FIRE INVESTIGATION

This module will point out the main feature of fire investigation. Fire investigation is by nature the basis
for fire prevention program. Only an in-depth analysis of what and how and where it was controlled (e.g.,
firefighting, structural design, lack of fuel) can help prevent future fires. Additionally, fire investigation
includes the observations of everyone involved, and at the fires themselves there are many firefighters who will
able to shed light on the nature of the fire, its progress, and so forth.

One of the most difficult problems to solve is to determine the cause of the fire, since the flames
generally consume any evidence of what occurred. This is the reason that the cause of most fires cannot be
determined without a long and careful investigation.

Firefighters often make snap judgments at the scene as to the cause of a fire, without an adequate
evidence or sufficient investigation on which to base their decision. Apparently, there is hesitation on the part of
firefighters to admit that they do not really know the real cause of the fire, since few fires (approximately 4% of
those reported) are listed as “cause known.” Instead, the fire is attributed to various causes without apparent
regard to actual evidence or to lack of it.

Some of the favorite causes listed by firefighters, when they are not certain of the actual cause, are faulty
wiring, children playing with matches, spontaneous combustion, sparks from stove, burning rubbish, and
careless disposal of smoking materials.

The very general and indefinite nature of these causes indicates that, in most cases, they are based on
assumptions, rather than on evidence,

In this relation, the material or book will assist you in performing or conducting investigation to
determine the causes and origin of a fire.

No matter how small, fire must be investigated. Fire investigations provide authorities with information
needed to guide fire prevention educational programs, help fire inspectors in spotting and eliminating new or
previously overlooked hazards, and develop meaningful information for training fire protection personnel.

As far as fire investigation is concerned, they must be defined as:

Cause-that which made the fire start: and

Reason – that which led to the cause of a fire (motive leading to the action.)

Both cause and reason must be established to satisfactorily complete a fire investigation. The cause
explains the existence of fire, or the What of investigation; while the reason establishes the Why of the fire, and
also to provide guidance in establishing corrective action to preclude a recurrence of the incident

The importance of the establishment of a fire cause is the knowledge of the physical aspects of fire.

Four General Classes of Fire Causes

1. Natural Fire – fire caused naturally without human intervention or aid; such as lightning,
spontaneous ignition, mechanical malfunction of equipment.
2. Accidental Fire – fire causes where human action is involved directly or indirectly i.e. a.).
Careless disposal of smoking materials; b). workers using welding-cutting equipment
3. Arson – fire cause as a result of the wilful and criminal action of some persons, i.e., incendiary
fire.
4. Unknown Fire- fires which are not classified as to cause.

Three General Classifications of Fire

1. Innocent fire – e.g., natural and accidental causes

2. Incendiary fire – e.g., arson cases
3. Unknown fire – e.g., fire of unknown causes.

Person/s Responsible to Examine and Inspect the Fire Scene (American Settings)

Fire Marshall

Fire Chief

Assistant Chief for Technical Service

Fire Inspector responsible for the specific building

Senior Fire Officer at the fire scene

Photographer

Utilities personnel (particularly electrician)

The first four individuals provide technical experience for the investigation. The Senior Fire Officer
from the fie incident is present to explain what was observed during the fire and to report on the mechanics or
what transpire during the extinguishment of the fire.

Photographer provides complete coverage, beginning with pictures during the fire fighting operation;
including exterior, interior, special features, circumstances and the activities of the investigators at work.

Utilities personnel provide technical assistance, particularly as to the condition of electrical circuits and
appliances.
Fire Investigation and Evidence Kit

Evidence kit provides equipment for use in the investigation and for the preservation of any evidence
found at the scene after that evidence has been photograph in its original location.

• Special clothing such as: coverall, gloves, boots used to protect uniform;
• Flashlight and electric lantern;
• Measuring tape and small ruler for making measurements;
• Labels (gummed and stringed) used to identify items;
• New or sterile glass jars with rubber airtight seals used for the collection (assorted sizes) used for
collection of samples.

Basic Steps in a Fire Scene Examination

• Search systematically – Make a plan, have in mind what you will look for, the way you will look, and
what you will do with each item found and collected. Be thorough, complete and orderly
• Observe- Use your eyes, ears, nose, and camera if possible to note the conditions. Observe the fire and
the spectators.
• Take photograph – the camera records more details than the naked eye. Establish visual reference
through numerous photographs. Photographs each area several times during the various phases of
investigation. Infrared photography may prove extremely valuable since it is sensitive to differences in
heat.
• Work by the process of Elimination – established a checklist and check off each item. Settle one item
before attempting another if possible. Avoid backtracking.
• Check and Verify – Do not assume or take for granted. Don’t jump to conclusions.
• Take Note – write down all the details
• Draw diagrams – amplify notes with diagrams depicting locations of incidents described.

Areas to Conduct Fire Investigation

Exterior- Determine where the fire vested first by comparing burn char, smoke, and heat patterns around
windows, doors and roof.

Look for the following:

• Exterior points of origin;

• Unusual burn patterns of flammable liquid;
• Tools and flammable liquid containers;
• Footprints and scuff marks at suspected points of entry.

Interior – Conduct a cursory examination or general survey of the entire structure of interior for the extent of
fire damage. Establish the class of fire duration (brief or long) and the approximate burn time checking the
following;

• Window glass condition;

• Depth of wood char, at or in close proximity to the point of origin;
• Penetration of fire restrictive wall coverings by fire;
• Electric clock that has been stopped by fire damage.
 • Note the time stopped and compare with alarm time. The time factors should be estimated and
considered as approximation only.

What evidence is needed to establish an arson case?

• Burn pattern: multiple origins or unusual origin location.

• Presence/absence, and/or condition of ignition key.
• Ignition lock/switch condition.
• Accelerants in unexpected location(s)
• Missing accessories, components, or personal property.
• Components that have been tampered with.
• Evidence of forced entry.
• Metal content in engine or transmission lubricants
• Physical damage or abuse to vehicle

Types of Fire/Arson Investigation

Basic Investigation

Purposes:

1. To determine what property was damage;

2. What the causes and reasons were;
3. The number and extent of injuries or fatalities; and
4. The recommended corrective actions to prevent recurrence.

Technical Investigation

It is an in-depth investigation to determine more specific details of the cause and effects, and to establish
necessary corrective action.

Reasons in Conducting Technical Investigation

1. there is suspicion of arson in connection with any fire;

2. there is suspicion of negligence or violation of regulations;
3. the cause of any fire is undetermined (to established the most probable cause);
4. there is evidence of negligence or mismanagement in the fire suppression or rescue opration,
5. loss of life or disabling as a result of fire.

Arson Investigation

The direct result of the basic or technical investigation or it may be brought about from outside knowledge.

Character Traits of Qualified Arson Investigator

1. He should posses knowledge of investigate techniques;

2. He should have an insight of human behaviour;
3. He should have a firsthand knowledge of the chemistry of fire and its behaviour;
4. He should be resourceful.
• After operation report - it is a report that may be rendered after any successful police operation that leads to
the arrest of any member or some members of syndicated crime group.

MODULE 7: ARSON – FINAL PERIOD

Laws on Arson

This chapter will present and point out what are the reasons that contribute to the spread of fire. There
are three principal causes of fire namely: men, women and children. This statement still has considerable
significance because most of the more than one and a quarter million building fires that occur every year in the
United States and Asian Countries particularly the Philippines are caused by human errors either of omission or
commission. For that reason considerable importance is placed upon educating the public along fire prevention
lines or programs. For how many years we have referred to the causes of fire. This was not always strictly
correct. For example, flammable liquids have been listed as one of the cause of fire, yet flammable liquids
cannot alone cause a fire unless some ignition source is provided.

The legal authority for investigating fires and prosecuting people who arranged for a fire is usually given
to the State Fire Marshall. But providing a case of arson against one or more persons is another matter entirely,
and may be the guilt. The choice of whether to prosecute is up to the District Attorney’s Office as part of the
criminal justice system.

In the Philippines, under the DILG or PNP Law, the Bureau of Fire Protection and Public Safety is the
main government agency responsible for the prevention and suppression of all destructive fires on buildings,
houses and other structures, forest, land transportation vehicles and equipments, ships or vessels docked at piers
or major sea ports, petroleum industry installations, plane crashes and other similar incidents , as well as the
enforcement of Fire Code (P.D. 1185) and other related law.

It has the major power to investigate all causes of fires, and if necessary, file the proper complaints with
the proper authority that has jurisdiction over the case (R.A. 6975, sec 54).

What Constitutes Arson?

1. Burning – there must be burning or changing, i.e., the fibre of the wood must be destroyed or
decomposed, its identity or physical state changed.
2. Wilfulness – the act was done purposely and with intention.
3. Motive- the moving cause that induces the commission of the crime.
4. Malice – it denotes hatred or a desire for revenge.
5. Intent- the purpose or design with which the act is done and involves the will to do the act.

Methods of Proof in Arson

Most of the physical evidence in arson is often destroyed. To prove arson was committed , Corpus
Delicti (the Body of the Crime) must be shown and the identity of the arsonist must be established.
What is Corpus Delicti?

It is the fact of that crime was committed.

Factors involved:

1. Burning – that there was fire that may be shown by direct testimony of complainant, firemen responding
to the crime, and other witnesses of the fire incident. Burned parts of the building may also indicate
location.
2. Criminal Design – a wilful and intent action done must be shown. The presence of incendiary devices,
flammable substances/materials such as gasoline and kerosene may indicate that the fire is not
accidental.
3. Evidence of Intent – when valuables were removed from the building before the fire, the ill-feeling
between the accused and the occupants of the building involved for burned – absence to effort to put off
the fire and such other indications.

Basic of Lines of Inquiry

Points of Origin of fire

Initially, the important point to be established is the point of origin of the fire, or what particular place in
the building the fire started. This may be obtained or established by an examination of witness/es by the arson
investigator, by inspection of the debris at the fire scene, and by studying the fingerprint of fire.

The fingerprint of fire

This occurs during the free-burning stage of the fire, or when it undergoes pyrolytic decomposition or
heated gases move upward on the walls leaving a burnt pattern.

Witnesses must be questioned as to:

• His identity;
• What attracted his attention;
• The time of observation;
• His position in relation to the fire at the time of his observation;
• Exact location of the blaze;
• He rapidity or the speed of spread of the fire;
• Color of flame and odor if he/she is in position to observe this;
• Size and intensity;
• Any other person in the vicinity seen by the witness.

Note Fire Setting Mechanism:

• Matches
• Candles
• Electrical system
• Mechanical means
• Chemical methods
Motive

Fires are set by:

1. Person with motives

• Those with desire to defraud the insurer
• Employees or such other person who has grievance
• Those with desire to conceal evidence of crime
• Those who set fire for purposes of intimidation

2. Person without motives

• Those who are mentally ill

• Pathological fire-setters
• Pyros (pyromaniac)
• Psychos

In determining motive, the arson investigator must concentrate on the three (3) Major Factors namely:

1. Point of Origin
2. Modus Operandi
3. Beneficiaries

What are the common motives of arsonist?

1. Economic Gain
• Insurance fraud – benefits
• Desire to dispose merchandise – loss of market value being out of season, lack of raw materials,
over supply of merchandise
2. Profit by the Perpetrator other than the Insured Person
• Insurance agent wishing business with the insured person
• Business competitors plan to drive others
• Person seeking job as personnel protection
• Salvagers and contractors wishing to contract another building.

3. Concealment of Crime – when the purpose of hiding a crime or committing a crime, arson was used as a
means.

4. Pyromania – the uncontrollable impulse of a person to burn anything without an motivation.

• Abnormal youth – epileptics, imbeciles and morons
• Hero type – a person responsible setting a building on fire and pretends to discover it, turn the
alarm or make some rescue works to appear as “hero”.
• Drug Addicts and Alcoholics
• Sexual Deviates and Perverts

Tell Tale Signs

 These signs maybe obvious that the first fireman at the fire scene will suspect arson:

1. Burning Building – the type of building may indicate a set fire under certain circumstances. A fire of
considerable size at the time the first apparatus arrives at the scene is suspicious if a modern concrete or
semi-concrete building is involved.
2. Separate fires – when two or more fire breaks out within a building, the building is certainly suspicious.
3. Color of smoke – some fire burn with little or no smoke but there are exceptions to this. The observation
of the smoke must be made at the start of the fire since once the fire has consumed a major proportion;
the value of the smoke is lost, because the smoke will not indicate the material used by arsonist.
4. Smoke Marks – an experienced investigator will determine the volume of smoke involved at a fire and
the character as residue deposited on walls or elsewhere. Smoke marks have often been of assistance in
determining the possibility of a fire having more than one place of origin.
5. Color of Flame – the color of the flame is a good indicator of the intensity of the fire, it is an important
factor in determining incendiarism.
6. Size of fire - the size of fire is important when correlated with the type of alarm, the time received and
the time of arrival of the first responder at the fire scene. Fire makes what might be termed a normal
progress. Such progress can be estimated after an examination of the material burned in the building,
and the normal ventilation offered to the fire. The time element and the degree of headway much by the
flames became important factors to determine possible incendiarism.
7. Direction of Travel – while it is admitted that no two fires burn in identical fashion, yet it can be shown
that the fire makes normal progress through various types of building materials, combustibility of
contents, channel of ventilation and circumstances the sending of alarm, an experienced investigator can
determine whether a fire has spread abnormally fast.
8. Intensity – the degree of heat given off by a fire and the color of its flame often times indicate that some
accelerant has been added to the material normally present in a building and the investigator must look
further for more evidence used of such accelerant. Difficulty in extinguishing the fire is often a lead to
suspect presence of such fluid or liquid as gasoline or kerosene.
9. Odor – the odor of gasoline , alcohol, kerosene and other flammable liquids which are often used as an
accelerant is a characteristics and often times an arsonist is trapped because of this tell tale sign. Most of
fires-setters are inclined to use substances which will make the blaze certain and at the same time burn
up any evidence of their crime.
10. Condition of Content - Persons tending to set their house on fire frequently remove objects of value
either materially or sentimentally Store and other business establishments remove a major portion of
their content or replace valuable merchandise with, out of style articles.
11. Doors and windows – Locked doors and obstructed entrance and passageways are sometimes point to an
attempt to impeded firemen in their operation to put out the fire. Doors and windows showing signs of
forced entry may point to arson preceded by burglary or arson by someone without a key to premises.
12. Other Suspicious Circumstances – Interested by-standers of familiar faces and discovery of some objects
which might be part of a mechanical fire-setting device among debris.

ARSON – it is the intentional or malicious destruction of property by fire.

The Legal Aspect’s of Arson/fire Investigation:

1. Kind and character of the building burned;

 2. Location of the building;
3. Extent of value of the damage;
4. Whether inhabited or not.

Basis of Criminal Liability in Arson:

1. Kind and character of the building burned;

2. Location of the building;
3. Extent of value of the damage;
4. Whether inhabited or not.

Destructive Arson is committed by burning of the following

1. Any arsenal, shipyard, storehouse, military installation, powder or firework factory, ordinance,
storehouse, archives or general museum of the government;
2. Any passenger train or motor vehicle in motion, or vessel out of ports;
3. In an inhabited place, any storehouse or factory of inflammable or explosives materials; and
4. Any theatre, church, cockpit arena, or other buildings where meetings are held, when occupied by
numerous assemblage.

Building burned is a public and purpose is to destroy evidence kept therein to be used in legislative, judicial
or administrative proceedings, irrespective of the damage, if the evidence is to be used against the dependant of
any crime punishable under existing law.

Burned building is a public and the purpose is to destroy evidence kept therein to be used in instituting
prosecution for punishment of violators of law, irrespective of the amount of damage.

Arson of Property of Small Value (Art. 323, RPC)

Elements

1. Burning of an uninhabited hut, storehouse, barn, shed, or any property;

2. Value of property does not exceed twenty five pesos (25.00)
3. Under circumstances clearly excluding all danger of fire spreading.

Crimes involving destruction

Offender causes destruction by any of the following means:

1. Explosion;
2. Discharge of electric current;
3. Inundation, sinking or stranding of a vessel;
4. Taking up the rails from a railway track;
5. Malicious changing of railway signals for the safety of moving train;
6. By using any other agency or means of destruction;
7. Destroying telegraph wires and telegraph post or those other communication system.

Article 325, RPC

Burning of one’s own property as a means of committing Arson. This article punishes the burning of one’s own
property for the purposes of committing arson or great destruction of property.

Article 326, RPC

Setting fire to property exclusively owned by the offender.

This article provides the purpose of the offender to:

• Defraud or cause damage to another, or

• Damaged is actually caused upon another’s property even such purpose is absent, or
• Thing burned is a building in an inhabited place.

P.D. No. 1613 – Amending the Law on Arson

Special aggravating Circumstances in Arson

1. If committed with intent to gain;

2. If committed with the benefit of another;
3. If the offender is motivated by spite or hatred towards the owner or occupant of the property burned;
4. If committed by a syndicate (three or more persons).

Prima Facie Evidence of Arson

1. If the fire started simultaneously in more than on part of the building or establishment;
2. If substantial amount of flammable substances or materials are stored within the building not necessary
in the business of the offender nor for household use;
3. If gasoline, kerosene, petroleum, or other flammable or combustible substances or materials soaked
therewith or containers thereof, or any mechanical, electrical, chemical, or electronic contrivance
designed to start a fire, or ashes, or traces of an of the foregoing are found in the ruins or premises of the
burned building or property
4. If the building or property is insured for substantially more than its actual value at the time of the
issuance of the policy;
5. If during the lifetime of the corresponding fire insurance policy more than two fires have occurred in the
same or other premises owned or under control of the offender and or insured;
6. If a demand for money or other valuable consideration was made before the fire in exchange for the
desistance of the offender or for the safety of the person or property of victim.

Look for Prima Facie Evidence of Arson

1. Entering the Building: When entering the building, the investigator should observe the following:
2. Look for mark on doors and windows not burned for possible indication of forcible entry.
3. Notice whether the intruder has discarded tools used for forcible entry.
4. Notice unusual arrangement of the building content.
5. Stocks or substitution of stocks, new expensive stocks have been removed, substituted by second hand
or old stock.

Guidelines in the investigation of Arson:

 I. Arrival and Observation

Arrival

• Observe person/ vehicle leaving area

• Characteristics of person/vehicle leaving the area
• Unusual road/street condition
• Barricade showing the progress of response
• Vehicle parked in such a manner as to create obstruction to the fire scene

Observation

• Identify the person who called the fire department

• First person who leave the fire scene
• Did the fire occur during or after business hour
• Was it during daytime or night time?
• Condition of traffic in the area
II. The Fire Scene:

Protecting the Fire Scene

• Cooperation of the firemen and the Police
• Assignment of guards

Mechanics Search

• Planning
• Sifting of the debris
• Location of the point of origin of the fire
• General Rules /SOP’s

Collecting and Preserving of Evidence

• Photography
• Sketching
• Assistance of qualified experts
• Handling of physical evidence
• Forwarding of physical evidence

III. Post Investigation

Methods

Among the most likely method to be used by investigators are the recording of the facts noted at the fire
scene, sketches and photographs as well as statements taken from the witnesses. And other sources of
information that may be useful in developing the investigation and completing the reports, fire inspection
reports and financial reports.
 All notes should be thorough, accurate, detailed and neat so that they are easily to transcribe and / or
read. They will readily assist in correlating observations and developing leads. These notes are the principal
basis of all reports the investigator makes and submits.

The Fire Investigation Report

It is the final written results of taking notes, recording observations and interviewing witnesses. It
includes the written results of the construction and size of the burned structure, what the firemen observed
and encountered upon their arrival at the fire scene, the color of the smoke and flame, and the intensity and
location of the fire.

Inventory of Evidence

As the evidence is collected and marked for identification purposes, it should be entered on some type of
inventory sheet. In all cases, it will improve the admissibility of evidence by establishing chain of custody
necessary to prove during the trial on an arson case.

Module 8: THE FIRE ORIGIN

One of the first things to look for is the origin of the fire. Usually, accidental fires have only one origin:
sometimes an arson fire will have several origins. That’s is, there will be two or more fires. Normally, a fire
burns outward laterally in all directions, the heat generated moves up, and fires seldom burns down. Explosions
also feed in all directions: the heat effect is usually intense. The point of explosion is usually intense. The point
of explosion is usually easier to determine than the point of origin of other accelerants. Unless the investigator
has a special training in this type investigation, it probably would be to his advantage to call it a specialist.

METHODS OF ESTABLISHING ARSON

The usual methods involve examination of the fire scene. Although some of the most common methods
used are burn indicators, which are the effect on materials of heating or partial burning and may be used to
determine the point or points of origin of a fire. Fire accelerates the development of fire and to increase the
amount of devastation. If either multiple point of origin or traces of fire accelerants are found arson is indicated.

Occasionally, detection of arson during a fire is done through a team of arson investigators in the form
of surveillance of the fire scene: suspicious behavior of spectators, an overzealous offer of assistance by
spectator, or someone constantly driving over fire hoses are grounds for suspecting arson. Behavior of owners,
occupants, and the other persons present as to their actions, excitements, dresses, and other pertinent
information are observed, which might be helpful later.

Gasoline was, by far the most frequently found fire accelerant, possibly because it is readily available.
Its characteristic and familiar odor makes it easier to detect than most other flammable liquids. To camouflaged
the odor, incendiaries ordinarily used ammonia which has a pungent odor easily recognized by firemen.
Ammonia is also used to keep out firemen from the burning structure. Other accelerants often used like
kerosene, alcohol, firemen can easily distinguish rubber. Films have pungent odors similar to camphor.

Arson is often used to conceal another crime. Documents and records that found purposely exposed during a
fire should be given particular attention, including doors, windows, and ventilators that are open and provide
cross-draffs. Locked and obstructed entrances or passageways to impede the speedy transit of firemen and
equipment’s.

GATHERING, PRESERVING, AND ANALYZING EVIDENCES

The arsonist expects the fire to destroy all of the evidence, and sometimes it does destroy most of it. However,
the investigator who digs hard enough many times comes up with evidence where seemingly none exist. The
cause of the fire should be investigated shortly after the fire is extinguished, otherwise, very little can be done
afterwards be-map-up and salvage operation. This is a crucial stage in the detection and investigation of arson
because cases rely on evidence that is recognized and preserved at this point.

FIDING AND PRESERVING EVIDENCES

As in all other investigations, only one person should pick up, mark and package all evidence, and special care
should be taken to maintain the chain of custody. There are some special problems in arson investigation due to
the types of accelerants that may have been used. Accelerants used often are those of petroleum products such as
gasoline, kerosene, mineral spirits, or anything containing volatile flammable liquid. Hydrocarbons of these
products may be found under the debris of the fire, at or near the point of the origin. These fluids, when originally
spread, flow outward and downward, hence evidence of these may be found in cracks in the floor or in dirt under
the fire. Just because the fire damage is extensive or there is no odor present does not mean these types of
accelerants were not used. The crime lab in most cases would be needed to prove which type of accelerant was
used. Wood flooring and rugs are the most common Substrates, followed by furniture and upholstery. These
materials are were the crime lab separates accelerant residues. Sections of

the floors, the debris or some dirt under the fire must be stored in glass or metal containers and sealed, to be of
value to the crime lab. Fumed from the accelerants or hydrocarbons would escape from plastic or open containers.
The predominant type of container used to preserve physical evidence from arson. Scenes are the unused metal
paint can. These containers are vapor tight and unbreakable. Plastic bags, while convenient and inexpensive, are
easily punctured, are chemically attacked by some types of evidence, and allow the loss of some volatile evidence
by diffusing through the bag.

TIME DELAY DEVICES

Delayed action is achieved in setting incendiary fires by the used of certain mechanical, electrical or chemical
devices. They usually involve matches, candles, electric heating elements batteries and clock mechanisms coupled
with flammable liquids, or chemicals that will spontaneously ignite after a short delay. If none of the devices are
found, the evidence, which should be the various containers for them. The arsonist uses this delayed type of
devices to establish an alibi.

CONDITION F DOORS, WINDOWS, FURNITURE

ln cases where a building has burned to the ground, the hardware of doors and window remain. They will fall
straight down, unless moved by the water stream of the firemen. This may tell whether a door or windows was
opened or closed. Metal parts of furniture may tell whether or not furniture has been moved from the building
before the fire. Ashes may give the crime on something to work with. For example, if extensive furniture has been
moved from the house prior to the fire and inexpensive furniture move in, the crime lab can tell from the ashes.
Evidence of fraud fires should be carefully examined. This is tremendous problem and should remain uppermost
in the mind of the investigator.
BURN INDICATOR

Burn indicators are the effects on materials of heating or partial burning, which are used to indicate various aspects
of fire such as flammable liquids, and points of origin. Interpretation of burn indicators is a principal means of
determining the cause of the fire. Although burn indicators are widely used to establish the causes of fires, they
have received little scientific testing. Some of the burn indicators used are the following:

• Alligatoring effect : checking of charred woos, giving it the appearance of the alligator skin. Large, rolling
blisters indicates rapid, intense heat, while small, flat alligatoring indicates long, low heat.
• Crazing of glass: formation of irregular cracks in glass due to rapid, intense heat while small, possible fire
accelerant.
• Depth of char: depth of burning wood - used to determine length of burn and thereby locate the point of
origin of the fire.
• Line of demarcation - boundary between charred and uncharred material. On floors or rugs, a puddle
shaped line of demarcation is believed to indicated a liquid fire accelerant. In the cross section of wood, a
liquid fire accelerant, distinct line of demarcation indicates a rapid, intense fire.
• Sagged furniture springs: because of the hear required for furniture springs to collapse from their own
weight and because of the insulating effect of the upholstery, sagged springs are believed to be possible
only in either a fire originating inside the cushions or an external fire intensified by a fire accelerant.
• Spalling: breaking off pieces of the surface of concrete, brick or cement due to intense heat. Brown stains
around the spall indicate the use of fire accelerant.
• Freezing of leaves: drying of leaves in a forest fire into their position at the time of the fire. Since the
leaves turn during the day. "Some persons regard this evidence as unreliable because of insufficient of the
fire wind."
VII. Assessment
Assignment/Output - 20%
Quizzes - 20%
Periodic Examination - 60%
100%
 VIII. References

Fire Behaviour and Arson Investigation by Leo Bustria

smokeybear.com
elitefire.co.uk
Fireprotection.net
https://www.wildlifehc.org/the-nature-of-fire/ unit1
SUNY Stony Brook Environmental Health and Safety - Stony Brook...
Fire Extinguishers | Environmental Health and Safety
https://www.femalifesafety.org/types-of-fires.html
https://www.scribd.com/doc/224678578/Review-Notes-in-Fire-Technology-and-Arson-Investigation
https://www.wildlifehc.org/the-nature-of-fire/
https://targetjobs.co.uk/careers-advice/job-descriptions/279533-firefighter-job-description
FireTechnologyandArsonInvestigation-
byVirgilBernaldezOsal,FO1CleofeBernadettePincaandPO3LeoverOsal