Part of a Continuing Series on the National Fire Protection Association's Guide for Fire and Explosion Investigations

The Scope and Purpose of NFPA 921
(Continued from June 5, 2002 E-Zine Article)


Documenting the Scene with Drawings

Commonly there is only one opportunity to document a fire scene before clean up begins. As such, it is important to choose documentation methods that will permit the investigator to accurately recall his observations and illustrate those to persons that have not had the benefit of viewing the scene, such as a claim adjuster or a juror. A good method of accomplishing this goal is to use drawings. NFPA 921 Chapter 13 'Recording the Scene' provides practical insight into the use of drawings in documenting fire scenes.

There are a variety of drawing types available, including architectural or engineering plans of buildings and equipment and diagrams that are more informal and sketches. Building and equipment plans can often be obtained from the owner. In some cases, copies of plans are kept on file and are available at local or state building or fire marshal offices. Diagrams can be made directly by the investigator and may be obtained from the building owner. Diagrams are often readily available for large plants or buildings as they are used in emergency evacuation planning. Sketches can be produced relatively quickly by the investigator and are useful in illustrating general layouts and locations.

Fire scenes and incidents vary in size and complexity. NFPA 921 13.4 states that "The exact detail required in the drawing depends on the decision of the specific investigator." Some fire scenes may be simple, yet involve complex issues that need to be understood. Complex issues may involve a fatality or serious injury in which the location of the body, exits, and fire detection devices may become important at some point in time. In such cases, a greater level of documentary detail is important, even if the scene itself appears to be simple.

If possible, it is a good idea to obtain or develop a drawing of the scene in the early stages of the investigation. The reason is that notes and photographic references can be added to the drawing as the investigation proceeds. At the end of the investigation, you have a drawing that includes notes, observations and photographic references. Such a drawing will prove extremely beneficial months or years later when explaining the scene and your observations to someone who was not there.