Fire Investigator
The fire cause classification which involves no deliberate act is : A. accidental . B. undetermined . C. incendiary . D. natural .
Answer: A
The height to which smoke has stained the walls and windows of a room will reflect : A. extent of the fire and the amount of ventilation . B. less volatile fuels . C. exposed combustible surfaces . D. downward spread .
Answer: A
The ignitability of any dust - air mixture is based on which of the factors listed below ? A. Size of particle , impurities in the mixture , strength of ignition source B. Weight of particles , impurities in the mixture , temperature of ignition source C. Density of particles , impurities in the concentrations , size of the dust particle D. Size of the room , impurities in the mixture , type of ignition source
Answer: A
The proper recording of a scene requires : A. photographs . B. a third party to verify the recording . C. a before and after view . D. inclusion of bystander observations .
Answer: A
The purpose of providing photographs of a fire scene is to : A. provide an accurate record of the scene . B. show the cause and origin of a fire . C. see whether there is a need to videotape the scene . D. have photos to show at the fire station .
Answer: A
The type of fire death caused by inhalation of hot gases is; A. Pulmonary contusion B. Internal edema C. Cardiac arrest D. Burns
Answer: B
The use of digital images in the courtroom is : A. not allowable due to established case law . B. acceptable and provides quality photographs C. acceptable on case by case basis . D. not yet allowable due to originality conflicts
Answer: B
Which is a suggested procedure when interviewing one who must be approached with caution ? A. Information given by the interviewee is verified by another witness . B. Conduct the interview with minimal distractions . C. Make an appointment with the interviewee . D. Use a fixed checklist .
Answer: B
Who should the use of digital photography be discussed with before an investigator uses this technology to document a fire scene ? A. Crime lab B. Local prosecutor C. The homeowner D. Fire prevention chief
Answer: B
A sawtooth roof is a : A. two - sided roof with a double slope on each side . B. curve - shaped roof . C. series of single pitched roofs . D. hip roof having two slopes on each side .
Answer: C
An appliance is thought to be the cause of a fire spread to involve the other contents of the room you should : A. review the manufacturer's instructions for the appliance usage . B. document its characteristics and safety guidelines . C. determine the fire pattern and location of the appliance in the area of origin . D. video the entire area and attempt to disassemble the appliance .
Answer: C
An investigator who is worried whether evidence will disintegrate or break is concerned about its : A. physical state . B. volatility . C. fragility . D. physical characteristics .
Answer: C
Fire scene sketches should be considered important supplements to _____and ______ not replacements for them . A. witness statements , written notes B. building location , videos C. photographs , written notes D. building location , witness statements
Answer: C
How do low - density materials burn compared to higher - density materials ? A. At a lower heat release rate B. At near the same rate C. Faster D. Slower
Answer: C
Long periods of strenuous labor by investigators on a fire scene can lead to : A. enhanced evidence collection . B. focused attention to detail . C. inability to recognize and respond to hazardous conditions . D. good physical conditioning exercise .
Answer: C
The Mansard roof is a : A. series of single pitched roofs . B. curve - shaped roof . C. hip roof having two slopes on each side . D. two - sided roof with a double slope on each side .
Answer: C
Whenever possible , the evidence storage area should be controlled by the : A. local police department . B. fire investigator . C. local fire marshal . D. incident commander .
Abswer: B
The distribution of heat through a circulating medium is : A. convection . B. oxidation . C. radiation . D. conduction .
Answer A
A reason to prematurely remove a fire victim's dead body from the building is : A. imminent collapse of the building . B. so that suppression efforts are not impeded . C. a controlled fire in the immediate vicinity D. to resuscitate the victim .
Answer: A
Before entering a structure or beginning debris removal , the investigator should assess the : A. area for holes in the floor , loosely stacked debris , or standing water / ice . B. safety of personnel C. quality of the overhaul procedure conducted by the suppression personnel . D. rest time necessary before starting .
Answer: A
Directions : Read the following statements and select your answer from choices A - D Statement 1 : The investigator should avoid operating switches or electrical equipment if flammable gases and vapors are suspected in the immediate area . Statement 2 : Location of underground utilities is not a consideration . Statement 3 : Always use a meter to determine whether the electricity is off . A. Statement 1 and 3 are true ; statements 2 is false . B. Statement 1 is false ; statements 2 and 3 are true . C. Statements 1 and 2 are true ; statement 3 is false . D. All three statements are true .
Answer: A
Evidence collection should be guided by the principle that : A. it is easier to disregard collected items that prove to be unrelated than to recover important items that were left behind . B. if it lies within the fire scene , collect and document it within 24 hours . C. the investigator should only evaluate and document the scene . D. items must be collected within 48 hours .
Answer: A
Fire investigators should take steps to protect themselves when dangerous atmospheres are suspected at the fire or explosion scene by : A. testing the air using hazard detection instruments . B. obtaining assistance from police C. using flashlights , radios , and cameras . personnel to enter first . D. donning bunker gear .
Answer: A
Fire protection of steel is accomplished by : A. encasing steel in a structure or material such as concrete . B. the use of suspended ceilings . C. providing protection for exterior box columns by filling them with water . D. painting with a latex based paint .
Answer: A
Fire resistive construction classification is : A. Type I. B. Type II . C. Type IV . D. Type V.
Answer: A
Heat can travel throughout a burning building by one or more of three methods : A. conduction , radiation , and convection . B. extension , conduction , and direct flame contact . C. convection , expansion , and direct flame contact . D. radiation , expansion , and direct flame contact
Answer: A
If the vehicle identification number ( VIN ) of a vehicle involved in a fire is unreadable , the best source of assistance for an investigator would be a ( n ) : A. police auto theft unit B. mechanic . C. town clerk . D. automobile dealer .
Answer: A
In a ( n ) _____ photograph , the observer can see views from a high vantage point to reveal fire spread patterns . A. aerial B. witness viewpoint C. evidence D. interior
Answer: A
In building construction a repeated load is : A. loads that are applied intermittently . B. forces that are crushing . C. forces that tend to pull . D. forces tend to slide past one another .
Answer: A
In motor vehicle post - crash situations , the crushing or cutting of the battery or starter cables may cause : A. arcing . B. overloading . C. autoignition . D. self - ignition .
Answer: A
Many jurisdictions have enacted statutes requiring that information be released public officials regarding fires that may have been the result of : A. a criminal act . B. actions of the fire marshal C. accidental acts . D. an explosion .
Answer: A
Prior to starting the investigation , the investigator needs to ensure : A. structural stability . B. they have the permission of the owner to enter the structure . C. the salvage and overhaul process has been completed . D. electrical power to the structure is on to enhance investigator's lighting capabilities
Answer: A
Static electricity is : A. a stationary charge that builds upon some objects . B. luminous particle that can be formed when an arc melts metal and spatters particles away from the point of arcing . C. a brief discharge that occurs as an energized electrical path is opened while current is flowing . D. a high temperature luminous electric discharge across a gap or through a medium .
Answer: A
The design that shows the structure on the property with sewer , water , electricala distributions to the structure is the : A. site plan . B. electrical drawing . C. floor plan . D. topographical drawing .
Answer: A
The design that shows the various grades of the land is the : A. topographical drawing . B. electrical drawing . C. site plan . D. floor plan .
Answer: A
The rate of charring of wood varies widely depending on variables such as : A. direction , orientation , and size of wood grain . B. type of fire suppressant used . C. age and type of the wood . D. variations of exposure .
Answer: A
Type Il construction is : A. the structural elements are entirely of noncombustible or limited combustible material . B. structural members ( i.e. , columns , beams , arches , floors , and roofs ) are basically of heavy timber , unprotected wood with large cross sectional areas . C. structural members are noncombustible and have a fire resistance . D. all or part of the interior structural elements may be of combustible materials and exterior walls are required to be noncombustible or limited combustible .
Answer: A
Where would a Material Safety Data Sheet be found ? A. On - Site B. Emergency Response Guidebook C. Communication plan D. Local emergency planning committee
Answer: A
_____ diagrams can be used to show the direction of fire travel . A. Vector B. Grid C. Slide rule D. Graph
Answer: A
A method to identify hazardous materials is : A. observing smoke color . B. noting placards and labels . C. observing vapor clouds . D. hearing reports from bystanders .
Answer: B
An appliance is thought to be the cause of a fire , which action should you first perform ? A. Read the manufacturer's instructions for the appliance usage . B. Document the position of controls and manufacturers serial number . C. Move the appliance outside for closer examination . D. Disassemble and examine the appliance .
Answer: B
Catalytic converters have a normal operating internal temperature range of : A. 600-900 ° F . B. 1000-1300 ° F . C. 1400-1600 ° F . D. 800-1000 ° F .
Answer: B
Directions : First , read the following statements regarding sabotage to fire - resistive building assemblies . Then , select the correct answer from alternatives A - D . Statement 1 : Open doors are the most common method of fire travel through a structure . Statement 2 : Sabotage to fire or smoke doors can increase fire and smoke spread throughout a structure . Statement 3 : Stairway doors propped open are always a good indicator of sabotage A. Statements 1 and 3 are false ; statement 2 is true . B. Statements 1 and 2 are true ; statement 3 is false . C. Statement 1 is false ; statements 2 and 3 are true . D All three statements are true .
Answer: B
Directions : First , read the statements regarding the condition of a fire victim's body ; then , select the correct answer from alternatives A - D . Statement 1 : Rigor mortis is caused by chemical changes in muscle tissue . Statement 2 : Rigor mortis passes after 12-24 hours leaving the joints and muscles limber again . Statement 3 : Rigidity of muscles caused by exposure to fire leaves the body in the same manner as rigor mortis . A. Statement 1 is true ; statements 2 and 3 are false . B. Statements 1 and 2 are true ; statement 3 is false . C. Statement 1 is false ; statements 2 and 3 are true . D. All three statements are true .
Answer: B
Directions : Read the following statements regarding the collection of samples for detecting flammable liquids and select the correct answer from choices A - D below . Statement 1. Traces of volatile liquids are likely to be found in areas of deep char or in the center of burned areas . Statement 2. Many furnishings contain synthetic materials that share the same petroleum - based origin as most accelerants . Statement 3. Control blanks of floor coverings may be found under large appliances or bookcases . A. Statements 1 and 2 are true ; statement 3 is false . B. Statements 1 and 3 are false ; statement 2 is true . C. Statement 1 is false ; statements 2 and 3 are true . D. Statements 1 and 2 are true ; statement 3 is false .
Answer: B
Evidence can be collected at the fire scene by : A. the safety officer . B. private investigators and insurance company representatives . C. public . D. Emergency Medical Service personnel .
Answer: B
Evidence is valueless if it has not been ___ following the requirements for the chain of evidence . A. transferred and stored B. maintained and documented completely C. cleaned and received D. stored and processed
Answer: B
Gases with vapor density of less than one will : A. rise and not concentrate at the high point of confinement . B. rise and concentrate at the high points of confinement . C. settle and not concentrate at the lowest level . D. settle and concentrate at the lowest level .
Answer: B
If an investigator suspects that mechanical or electrical equipment is the source of ignition , the laboratory analysis would be to : A. submit the suspected equipment for analysis . B. choose a comparison sample using the same make and model . C. photograph all involved equipment and involved areas . D. remove the equipment .
Answer: B
Statements made under circumstances showing that the speaker intended the statements only for the ears of the person addressed are considered communications . A. privileged B. confidential C. personal D. open
Answer: B
The basic chemical process associated with combustion is : A. convection . B. oxidation . C. radiation . D. conduction .
Answer: B
The common hazard associated with heating appliances is : A. family temperature limit controls . B. proximity of installation to combustibles . C. asphyxiation due to inadequate make - up air . D. the explosion potential .
Answer: B
The fire cause classification which involves no human intervention is : A. accidental . B. natural . C. incendiary . D. undetermined .
Answer: B
The least preferred method of documenting information obtained during an interview is : A. note taking . B. memorization C. a signed , written statement . D. a tape recording .
Answer: B
The minimum temperature to which a fuel in a normal atmosphere must be heated to start self - sustained combustion independent of an ignition source is : A. oxidation process . B. ignition temperature . C. fire / burning point . D. flash point .
Answer: B
The presence of a thick , oily soot on glass , including hydrocarbon residues is proof of the presence of : A. complete conduction . B. incomplete combustion . C. arson . D. an accidental fire .
Answer: B
The preliminary scene assessment of how a fire spreads through a structure is developed by noting the areas of : A. excess water to the least water damage . B. higher fire damage to less fire damage . C. lesser destruction to greater destruction . D. interior fire spread to the exterior .
Answer: C
The purpose of fire scene reconstruction is to recreate the state that existed prior to the fire , allowing the investigator to : A. show depth of char . B. determine other fire - related criminal acts . C. make a more accurate origin analysis . D. determine the source of the first material ignited .
Answer: C
The responsibility for evidence preservation rests with the : A. police department . B. incident commander . C. investigator or anyone who handles / examines evidence . D. fire marshal .
Answer: C
The solid residue that remains when wood is exposed to elevated temperatures is : A. debris . B. calcium . C. carbon . D. accelerant .
Answer: C
The type of fire death caused by oxygen depletion is : A. hypoxia . B. hyperthermia . C. anoxia . D. asphyxiation .
Answer: C
The warmth of the sun is an example of what type of heat ? A. Conduction B. Convection C. Radiation D. Pyrolysis
Answer: C
Two major types of explosions are : A. mechanical and BLEVE . B. BLEVE and autoignition . C. mechanical and chemical . D. chemical and autoignition .
Answer: C
What is the recommended storage method for fire debris with a suspected accelerant ? A. Box , paper bag , envelope , seal to avoid movement . B. Polypropylene or polyethylene plastic jar C. New , unlined metal can or glass jar with bakelite or metal cap D. Manila envelope ; do not fold ; wrap securely
Answer: C
What is the recommended storage method for paper documents ? A. Polypropylene or polyethylene plastic jar B. Box , paper bag , envelope ; seal to avoid movement C. Manila envelope ; do not fold ; wrap securely D. New , unlined metal can or glass jar with bakelite or metal cap .
Answer: C
When determining fuel loads within a building , what two factors must you consider ? A. Construction type and framing B. Roof type and covering C. Interior surface covering and furnishings D. Building height and exposure
Answer: C
When photographing an appliance identified in the area of origin , photographs should be both ____ as well as ____ to show the appliance relative to the area of origin , nearest combustible material , and a readily identifiable reference point . A. panoramic , close - up B. color , distant C. close - up , distance D. subjective , objective
Answer: C
Which condition would be conducive to creating an explosive atmosphere in the storage , handling , and use of flammable and combustible liquids ? A. Adsorption B. Penetrated fire wall C. Concentration of vapor D. Dispersion
Answer: C
Compared to other incidents , hazardous materials incidents have : A. the same level of risk . B. minimal risk . C. limited exposure D. more complex risk .
Answer: D
Constructing a depth - of - char grid diagram and plotting on graph paper to show points of equal char depths may display : A. source and form of heat ignition . B. low - order damage of explosion . C. accidental fire cause . D. identifiable lines of demarcation .
Answer: D
Diesel engines use the principle of _____ to ignite fuel vapor . A. frictional heat B. heat of decomposition C. heat of combustion D. heat of compression
Answer: D
Directions : Read the following statements regarding disposal of evidence ; then select the correct answer from alternatives A - D . Statement 1 : Criminal cases such as arson require the evidence be kept until the case is adjudicated . Statement 2 : Circumstances may require that evidence be retained for ten years . Statement 3 : Once all appeals have been exhausted , the investigator is legally free to dispose of the evidence . A. Statements 1 and 2 are true ; statement 3 is false . B. Statement 1 is true ; statements 2 and 3 are false . C. Statement 1 is false ; statements 2 and 3 are true . D. Statements 1 and 3 are true ; statement 2 is false .
Answer: D
Directions : The six steps of the basic method of investigation are numbered but have been disordered First put them in order and then choose the correct answer Conduct the investigation . Collect and preserve evidence . Receive the assignment . Analyze the incident . Prepare for the investigation . Report findings . A. 1 , 4 , 5 , 2 , 3 , 6 B. 2 , 4 , 5 , 1 , 3 , 6 C. 6 , 3 , 4 , 5 , 1 , 2 D. 3 , 5 , 1 , 2 , 4 , 6
Answer: D
Electrical heat energy in the form of an arc between oppositely charged conductors is : A. dielectricity . B. induction . C. friction . D. static - electricity .
Answer: D
Evidence derived from seeing , touching , smelling , or hearing the evidence is _____ evidence . A. documentary B. testimonial C. chain D. demonstrative
Answer: D
For most fire investigation purposes , color film is the best choice because : A. it is cost effective to purchase color film in bulk . B. black and white photographs are not admissible in court . C. most char patterns are too dark to photograph with black and white film D. subtle coloring of burn patterns is lost in black - and - white film .
Answer: D
In conducting a fire investigation where electricity is suspected of being the cause , the investigator should examine the service panel for : A. fuses . B. color coding of conductors . C. a penny in front of a fuse . D. an oxide interface .
Answer: D
Photography , video tapes , photographs , motion pictures , and computer - generated animation are all examples of ____ forms of information . A. mandatory B. written C. standard D. visual
Answer: D
The butterfly roof : A. slopes in only one direction . B. slopes in four directions . C. pitches down in two directions from a high point . D. is two shed roofs that meet at their low points .
Answer: D
The design that shows the size and arrangement of service entrance , switches , outlets , and electrical appliances is the : A. floor plan . B. topographical drawing C. site plan . D. electrical drawing .
Answer: D
The form of arson evidence often submitted for analysis can be classified as : A. vapor concentrations from baseboard samples . B. pooled liquid concentrations . C. charred remains of furniture from the area of origin . D. solid materials suspected of absorbing volatile liquids .
Answer: D
The legal term arson immunity acts is : A. suspicious acts of an individual . B. premised on allegations of breach of contract . C. at common law , the malicious burning of another's house . D. a statute requiring release of information to public officials .
Answer: D
The logical sequence to follow when developing an interview plan is : A. who is to be present at the interview , goals of the interview , who is to be interviewed , and the setting of the interview . B. goals of the interview , setting for the interview , who is to be interviewed , and who is to be present at the interview . C. who is to be interviewed , goals of the interview , setting for the interview , and who is to be present at the interview . D. goals of the interview , who is to be interviewed , setting for the interview , and who is to be present at the interview .
Answer: D
The oxidation reaction I that results in the extremely rapid , almost instantaneous oxidation of considerable heat accompanied by a very violent disruptive effect , and at supersonic speed is : A. deflagration . B. combustion . C. explosion . D. detonation .
Answer: D
The right of entry refers to the legal right to be on a given premise . Such entry can be obtained by : A. the Freedom of Information Law . B. permission of the fire marshal . C. Arson Immunity Act . D. a criminal search warrant .
Answer: D
The shed roof is described as : A. sloping in four directions . B. two shed roofs that meet at their low points . C. pitched down in two directions from a high point . D. a roof that slopes in only one direction .
Answer: D
The type of fire death caused by flashover is : A. anoxia . B. hypoxia . C. hypothermia . D. burns .
Answer: D
Type III construction : A. structural members are entirely of wood . B. structural members ( i.e. , columns , beams , arches , floors , and roofs ) are basically of heavy timber , unprotected wood with large cross sectional areas . C. structural members are noncombustible and have a fire resistance . D. all or part of the interior structural elements may be of combustible materials and exterior walls are required to be noncombustible or limited combustible .
Answer: D
What actions should be taken to preserve organic evidence collected at the fire scene ? A. Pack material in a clean paper container and keep it cool and moist . metal evidence container . evidence locker prior to delivery to the laboratory . B. Allow the material to air dry at room temperature and place in a clean C. Carefully package material in a clean metal container and store in an D. Allow the material to air dry at room temperature , package and secure .
Answer: D
What is the recommended storage method for glass fragments ? A. Manila envelope ; do not fold ; wrap securely B. New , unlined metal can or glass jar with bakelite or metal cap C. Polypropylene or polyethylene plastic jar D. Packed in an appropriate container ; seal to avoid movement
Answer: D
When a liquid fuel gives off enough vapors so that it can be ignited and burn , it has reached its : A. fire point . B. upper - flammable limit . C. vapor density . D. flash point .
Answer: D
Which is one of the few ways in which a gas furnace or dryer is likely to initiate a fire ? A. Radiant heat confined within the utility or laundry room B. Malfunctioning thermostat coupled with a room temperature setting C. Improper BTU rating of the appliance D. Simultaneous failure of the thermostat and the high limit control
Answer: D
Which is the least effective method of controlling access into the established fire scene perimeter ? A. Uniformed police officers B. Firefighters C. Private security guards D. Marked barrier / barricade tape
Answer: D
Which is true regarding the disposition of evidence after the completion of an investigation ? A. During arson trials , all evidence submitted will become part of the court record and will be kept by the courts . B. The investigator can destroy evidence without authorization once all appeals have been exhausted . C. A written record of authorization to dispose of the evidence should be kept . D. The investigator is free to discard evidence after receiving proper authorization .
Answer: D
While preparing to conduct an interview , you should always : A. memorize questions to be asked . B. send a copy of the questions to be asked to the person you are going to interview . C. establish a very strict plan or outline . D. develop questions ahead of time .
Answer: D
Wood frame construction classification is : A. Type I. B. Type II . C. Type IV . D. Type V.
Answer: D
Incandescent light bulbs of 25W or greater can sometimes show the direction of heat impingement . The side of the bulb facing the heat will be : A. pulled inward B. pulled towards the heat source . C. distended away from the heat source . D. distended downward in a teardrop formation .
Answer: b
Directions : Read the following statements regarding chain of custody and select the correct answer from choices A - D below . Statement 1 . If the chain of custody is broken , it can be restored . Statement 2 . If the chain of custody is broken , the evidence collected is valueless . Statement 3. The importance of the chain of custody to a successful fire investigation is overemphasized . A. Statements 1 and 3 are false ; statement 2 is true . B. Statement 1 is false ; statements 2 and 3 are true . C. Statements 1 and 2 are true ; statement 3 is false . D. All three statements are true .
Answer:A
The transmission of energy as an electromagnetic wave is : A. oxidation . B. radiation . C. conduction . D. convection .
Answer:B
The " R " that entails collecting , documenting , and preserving evidence at the scene of an explosion is : A. recognition . B. reassembly . C. recovery . D. reconstruction .
Answer; C
