CSI on Fire

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Claire Mansi, brings her remarkable experiences to the forefront. 

From her early days with the Fire Victim Support Unit in East Sussex to becoming a pivotal member of the London Fire Brigade's arson task force, Claire has seen it all.

In this episode, Claire unveils her innovative SAFE Project, aimed at transforming young offenders' views on the deadly consequences of arson. Despite setbacks like the disbandment of her task force, Claire's impact on youth and communities continues to challenge and inspire. 

We broaden the discussion, exploring the international realm of fire investigation and the dynamic growth of organizations like the UK Association of Fire Investigators and the International Association of Arson Investigators. 

With personal stories and reflections, this episode highlights the evolution of gender dynamics within the field, showcasing how women are reshaping fire investigation with their keen attention to detail and collaborative spirit. 

Celebrate the strides towards diversity and inclusivity, as we advocate for a more equitable professional environment for future generations, including Claire's own daughter. This episode is a tribute to the transformative changes in the field, as diverse voices and international participation lead the way to a more inclusive future.

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Uncover the secrets behind fire investigations and gain invaluable insights from industry experts on this bi-weekly episode of CSI on Fire.

We’re thrilled to bring you exciting updates on upcoming fire investigation conferences in Ireland and New South Wales. Plus, we've got a special shout-out to Scott and Chastity’s InFocus Fire Investigation podcast.

Ready to learn the ins and outs of solar panel fire investigations? We take a deep dive into the world of photovoltaic (PV) systems, highlighting critical safety concerns and common pitfalls like poor electrical workmanship and incorrect switch ratings.

Listen as we break down real-world examples, including a significant incident at a hospital, to emphasize the importance of understanding and managing PV systems in fire response and investigation. We also cover the complexities of investigating PV system fires, stressing the importance of assuming all panels and cables are energized until confirmed otherwise, and the invaluable data smart PV systems can provide.

 We also discuss the significance of Continuous Professional Development (CPD) and the rigorous standards for fire investigation training. Plus, get a sneak peek into the upcoming UKFI conferences and how they play a crucial role in ongoing education for fire investigators.

James Acott IAAI-CFI(V) FFireInv | LinkedIn
https://www.fireinvestigationsuk.com/

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What drives someone to set fires, and how can patterns of arson be detected? Join us in this gripping episode of CSI on Fire as we sit down with Ed Nordskog, a retired arson investigator who served 34 remarkable years with the Los Angeles Sheriff Department. From his early days as a bomb technician trained by the British Army Bomb Squad to becoming an expert in arson investigation, Ed has handled over 2,100 fire investigations, including more than 60 serial arson cases. His insights into the meticulous process of uncovering patterns in fire-related crimes will leave you with a newfound respect for the painstaking work behind the scenes.

Ed takes us on an enlightening journey through the advanced training and certification essential for fire investigators. Imagine being a rookie, paired with seasoned officers, and gaining hands-on experience at numerous fire scenes. Ed recounts his unique training experiences, including time spent at the National Fire Academy and participating in forensic fire death schools where realistic crime scenarios involving cadavers are recreated. This chapter underscores the critical role of rigorous training and multidisciplinary collaboration in elevating the standards of fire death investigations.

In the final segments, we explore the broader challenges and nuances in the world of fire investigation. Ed shares his thoughts on the limitations of psychological profiling in arson cases and the vital importance of science-based investigative psychology. He also touches on the complexities of civil versus criminal fire investigations and the prevalence of incendiary devices like Molotov cocktails. Finally, Ed delves into the economic impact of wildland arson and the emerging financial opportunities in this field due to climate change. With a wealth of knowledge and captivating anecdotes, this episode promises to be both educational and enthralling.

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What does it take, to transition from a Thames Valley Police Crime Scene Investigator to a Full time Fire investigator with Essex Fire and Rescue Service? 

Jessica offers an illuminating comparison between the police force and the fire service, highlighting the differences in workplace culture, rank systems, and public interactions. Learn about the supportive, collaborative environment within the fire service, and the importance of cross-departmental knowledge sharing and continuous professional development. This episode also reveals how fire service training methodologies and welfare provisions at major scenes contribute to a more welcoming atmosphere and better public perception.

Jessica's path is a compelling narrative of perseverance, strategic career moves, and the pivotal moments that sparked her interest in fire investigation, including a university lecture and a memorable container burn demonstration.


We further explore the intricate details of fire investigation accreditation and the role of autonomy in handling cases from start to finish. 

Jessica discusses the challenges and rewarding aspects of getting ISO accreditation for fire services and the benefits of leveraging university partnerships for professional growth. Ideal for anyone passionate about fire investigation, this episode provides rich insights into the pathways and opportunities within this fascinating field, underscored by Jessica's personal experiences and aspirations for expanding her team.

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What if you discovered that children often sleep through standard smoke alarms? This unsettling fact is just one of the many revelations in our latest episode of CSI on Fire and has implications in your Fire Investigations. 

We sit down with Dave Coss, a decorated fire investigator and canine handler, to uncover the critical role of fire investigation dogs in identifying ignitable liquids at fire scenes. 
From petrol to ethanol, these dogs are indispensable in forensic investigations, and Dave shares his captivating journey from the army to the banking sector, and finally to the Derbyshire Fire and Rescue Service.

Through professional  anecdotes, Dave illustrates the practical challenges and triumphs of working with these remarkable dogs, making this episode a must-listen for anyone interested in the intricacies of fire investigation.

Our conversation then touches on the crucial need for parents to wake their children during a fire due to the ineffectiveness of smoke alarms. 

We highlight the operational details of specialized fire investigation teams and the collaborative efforts across regions to enhance fire safety measures. 

Don’t miss Dave’s inspiring story of receiving a prestigious award from the Queen, underscoring the invaluable contributions of canine teams to fire investigations. Turn in and turn up for a compelling discussion that shines a light on the often-overlooked professionals of fire safety.

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Have you ever wondered how a failed attempt at medical school could lead to a thrilling career in fire investigation and becoming one of the most well know FI in the UK? 

Join us on CSI on Fire as we sit down with Steve Andrews, whose unexpected journey took him from studying zoology and psychology to earning a master's degree in bioaeronautics. 
Steve's passion for high-risk outdoor activities and a pivotal project on aircraft fire safety steered him into the fascinating world of fire research and investigation. 

In this episode, Steve shares his remarkable experiences, from working with the European Space Agency on fire experiments in microgravity to conducting large-scale fire and explosion tests that police budgets couldn't cover. 

He also recounts his time with the Forensic Science Service, exploring the intricate science behind fire and collision investigations. Steve's narrative is packed with hands-on experiences, including petrol bomb experiments and room fires, revealing the critical role of practical, on-the-ground work in shaping a robust body of knowledge in fire investigation.

You'll also hear about the evolution of fire investigation education and research, particularly following the closure of the Forensic Science Service. 

Steve discusses his involvement in establishing a master's degree in fire investigation at UCLan and the importance of publishing research to advance the field. From the cultural hesitance in the UK to share detailed forensic findings publicly to the powerful impact of visual evidence in court, this episode underscores the ongoing challenges and advancements in the ever-evolving landscape of fire investigation. 

Don't miss this captivating conversation with a true expert in the field.

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"Ive never had a bad experience in Ireland" is a fact I hold true as I talk with Eoin Dempsey, of Garda Síochána fire investigation specialist.  

Join us for an enthralling episode of CSI on Fire as we sit down with Eoin Dempsey, a seasoned sergeant from Garda Síochána, who has dedicated his life to unraveling mysteries, from homicides to intricate fire investigations. 

In our discussion, Eoin opens up about his active role in the Fire Investigation Association of Ireland (FIAI), a unique cross-border organization that unites fire services, forensic scientists, and police from both the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland. 

Having joined the FIAI in 2009 and becoming a key committee member in 2019, Eoin shares his insights on the collaborative nature of the association and its annual training conferences, which serve as melting pots of knowledge and innovation. 

We delve into some of Eoins most memorable cases, especially those involving fatalities and complex murder investigations, showcasing the profound impact of thorough communication and meticulous evidence gathering.

Through captivating anecdotes, we explore the rigorous training and education process for Irish police officers, shedding light on how continuous learning and experienced mentors have been pivotal to his success. 

We wrap up with an invitation to engage with the Fire Investigation Association of Ireland and join their upcoming events and webinars, which promise valuable insights and networking opportunities.

 Tune in for a riveting episode packed with expert knowledge, personal stories, and a warm invitation to be part of our investigative community.

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Unlock the secrets of fire investigation and fire science with our expert guest, Rory Hadden from Edinburgh University. 

Rory takes us through his captivating career as a reader at the School of Engineering, sharing insights into his cutting-edge research and the renowned fire engineering group at Edinburgh.

Discover the vital mechanisms of heat transfer—conduction, convection, and radiation—that are crucial for interpreting fire scenes and understanding fire dynamics. 

Rory uses compelling examples, such as the heating of a sprinkler bulb and compartment fire flashover, to illustrate these concepts. 

You'll learn why mastering these mechanisms is essential for effective fire investigation and communication of fire dynamics, making complex scenarios easier to decipher.

 You'll hear about the influential figures in the field, like Dougal Drysdale, and gain an understanding of the University's esteemed fire investigation course that promises significant credentials and membership opportunities with the Institute of Fire Engineers.

Grasp the pivotal role of oxygen in fire behavior and the importance of stoichiometric mixtures in combustion processes. Rory explains how varying oxygen concentrations can drastically alter flame behaviors and temperatures, and discusses the implications of flammability limits and ignition in real-world scenarios. 

We’ll also explore the multifaceted realm of fire science education, highlighting the need for a solid foundation in chemistry, heat transfer, and fluid mechanics. 

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Ever wondered what it takes to become a leading expert in vehicle fire investigations? 

Join us as we sit down with Bob McKay, a seasoned fire investigator from Australia with over 43 years of experience, to uncover the fascinating journey from being a factual insurance investigator to establishing McKay Forensic Investigations. 

Learn how a critical case involving a flawed expert opinion on a heavy vehicle fire led Bob to seek formal training and carve out a niche in investigating everything from road cars to heavy mining equipment. This episode promises a deep dive into the meticulous techniques used to unravel the mysteries behind vehicle fires.

We'll also shed light on the complexities of electric vehicle fires and the growing concerns around them. Discover the potential causes of vehicle fires, be it from electrical system failures, fuel delivery malfunctions, or mechanical issues. 

Bob shares his firsthand experiences with EV fire investigations, including a notable e-truck fire in Melbourne, and discusses the media's role in amplifying the hysteria around these incidents. 

From addressing the problems with e-scooters and e-bikes to the political landscape surrounding electric vehicles, this episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the nuanced world of vehicle fire investigations.

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Ready to unlock the secrets of effective fire scene investigation? 

Discover the hidden gems of fire investigation and specialized training in our milestone 20th episode of the CSI on Fire Podcast, where we bring you unparalleled insights from industry experts. 

With special guest Emma Wilson from Prometheus Forensic Services, we promise an episode brimming with captivating narratives and professional growth opportunities. 

From her intriguing career shift from medical biochemistry to fire investigation, Emma’s wealth of experience will inspire and educate you.

Step into the world of specialized CSI training courses designed to fine-tune your skills in handling fire scenes. 

Hear about immersive exercises like boil-overs and petrol bomb scenarios that not only equip you with practical knowledge but also debunk the myth that fire obliterates all evidence. 

Learn about the crucial procedures for preserving the scene of a fire fatality and the details that can reveal the victim's last moments. This episode provides a comprehensive guide on the importance of context in fire investigations, including the role of clothing materials in flash burns and how to distinguish genuine fire damage from other causes.

Dive into the complexities of forensic reviews, cognitive biases, and the legal safeguards that ensure justice is accurately served. Gain valuable insights on the evolving landscape of forensic services from Emma, including the benefits and challenges posed by privatization. This episode encapsulates two decades of expertise, making it an essential listen for anyone dedicated to the field of fire investigation.

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