Certified Fire Investigator Practice Exam

Is the term "Suspicious" considered a legitimate cause of fire in investigations?

1. Yes, it indicates intentional fire setting

2. No, it is not a legitimate cause

3. Yes, it requires further investigation

4. No, it indicates negligence

The correct answer is: No, it is not a legitimate cause

In fire investigations, the term "suspicious" does not constitute a legitimate cause of fire. Instead, it typically refers to circumstances surrounding a fire that may warrant closer examination to determine whether it was set intentionally or if other factors played a role. When investigators label a fire as suspicious, they are identifying potential indicators of arson or other human involvement but are not asserting that "suspicious" itself is a definitive cause. When considering the other options, it’s important to note that, while a suspicious designation may imply a need for further investigation, it does not directly point to a legitimate cause of fire. This term often suggests complexities in the fire's origins, requiring the gathering of evidence or witness statements to uncover the true cause. Therefore, rather than being categorized as a cause, "suspicious" serves as a signal to look deeper into the circumstances of the incident.