Story from interview with Seann Wells
VULCAN, AB Firefighters, investigators, and public safety professionals from communities across central Alberta gathered in Vulcan this fall to strengthen their skills in fire investigation, a discipline that blends practical experience with a scientific method of investigation.
Participants ranged from experienced firefighters to those pursuing professional certification in fire investigation. While some attendees brought backgrounds in wildfire, and structural firefighting, the primary focus of the training was structural fire investigation and the determination of fire origin and cause.
When a structure burns, investigators begin with a fundamental question: where did the fire start?
From there, the investigation seeks to determine how it began and whether similar incidents can be prevented in the future.
The work follows a disciplined scientific process. Investigators develop hypotheses, test them against observable evidence, and eliminate conclusions that cannot be supported by facts. The goal is to conduct an unbiased examination guided by evidence rather than assumptions.
Fire investigators occupy an important position in the broader public safety system. Their work frequently forms the first link in a chain of evidence that may later involve insurance investigators, police agencies, coroners, or, in some circumstances, criminal proceedings.
Generally, investigators classify fires into four categories: accidental, natural, incendiary, or undetermined. Determining which category applies is the foundation of the fact-finding mission.
Modern fire investigation continues to evolve alongside advances in technology.
While traditional methods such as photography, diagramming, scene documentation, and physical examination remain essential, investigators now have access to increasingly sophisticated tools. Burn-pattern analysis, electrical-system examination, and three-dimensional imaging techniques allow investigators to study scenes in greater detail and reconstruct events more accurately than in previous decades.
Technology can assist investigators in tracing electrical interruptions, identifying points of failure, and developing more detailed examinations of potential points of origin.
Ironically, these advances are occurring at a time when structural fires have generally become less common. Modern construction practices, improved building codes, smoke alarms, and sprinkler systems have all contributed to reducing risk in many buildings. However, some structures and building construction practices continue to present unique investigative challenges.
Approximately a dozen participants attended the tactical training event in Vulcan. While FireWise Consulting provides online instruction throughout the year, the practical component consisted of a two-day hands-on training exercise.
The Vulcan training grounds contain a variety of room configurations designed to simulate residential environments, including kitchens, bathrooms, bedrooms, and living rooms.
Working in teams of three, participants were assigned to investigate simulated fire scenes.
In many respects, the exercise resembles an archaeological dig.
Investigators search patiently through layers of damage, debris, and visual clues, working backward from the aftermath toward a point of origin. In heavily damaged structures, that process can become exceptionally difficult. Burn patterns may appear misleading at first glance, making a methodical approach essential.
The challenge is not simply finding evidence. It is correctly interpreting what that evidence reveals.
The training program is delivered by FireWise Consulting in partnership with the College of the Rockies in Cranbrook, B.C. Under the arrangement, FireWise provides instruction while the college administers testing and certification requirements.
Successful participants work toward certification under NFPA 1033 standards, one of the recognized benchmarks for professional fire investigators.
Fire Investigators Training Evaluation Addendum:
Participant Feedback Highlights Strong Practical Focus
Participant feedback from the Vulcan training exercise revealed two dominant motivations for attendance: departmental requirements and career advancement.
Several attendees reported that the training was required by their fire department as part of professional development and investigator qualification pathways. Others viewed the course as an opportunity to advance their careers and expand their expertise in fire investigation.
Across all responses, instructors received consistently positive reviews.
Participants frequently cited instructor knowledge, accessibility, and willingness to answer questions as among the program's greatest strengths. Several respondents noted that instructors took the time to ensure complex concepts were understood and supported students throughout both the online and practical components of the course.
"The instructors were knowledgeable and helpful" emerged as a recurring sentiment throughout the survey responses.
The practical training component in Vulcan also drew significant praise. Participants noted that the burn cells and specialized training facilities provided realistic investigative environments and allowed students to observe the effects of fire, smoke, and suppression efforts firsthand.
Many respondents highlighted the value of the live-burn exercises, noting that observing fire behaviour in real time improved their understanding of burn patterns and post-fire scene analysis.
One participant described the burn props as particularly valuable because they allowed students to distinguish between fire, smoke, and water damage patterns after extinguishment. Others emphasized the opportunity to exchange knowledge and experiences with fellow investigators throughout the exercises.
Course organization also received favourable comments. Participants described the curriculum as clearly structured, easy to follow, and designed in a manner that effectively built each lesson upon previous material.
Several respondents specifically acknowledged the support provided by FireWise personnel, including lead instructors and administrative staff, for helping ensure a smooth learning experience from registration through certification preparation.
Overall, survey responses suggest the FireWise Learning Academy program succeeds in balancing classroom instruction, practical field exercises, and mentorship, creating an environment that prepares participants for the demanding work of determining fire origin and cause.
Article by Mack McColl for McColl Magazine Commerce News and Public Safety
