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The Academy offers initial training for general department personnel in the area of investigations. The Office of State Fire Marshal coordinates and provides training and certification testing for fire marshals.
3224: Initial Fire Investigation for First Responders
- Prerequisite: None
- Recommended prerequisite: NFA Online course Initial Fire Investigation for First Responders (Q0379)
- Contact Hours: 16
- This course is designed specifically to provide a clear definition of the role of the first responder in arson detection and provide essential knowledge to enable him to recognize the potential of intentionally set fires, preservation and protection of evidence, and proper reporting of information to appropriate officials. By strengthening the partnership between first responders and investigators, the chances for successfully solving arson-related crimes will increase. The course includes topics such as fire behavior, critical observations of the first responder, fire causes, scene security and evidence preservation, legal considerations, and documentation of findings. This course is designed for fire and emergency services personnel who might conduct preliminary investigations into the origin and cause of fires.
3213: Basic Arson Course
- Prerequisite: Letter of endorsement from the organization head providing justification for the student to be included in the program and benefits afforded the organization after a student completes the course. Included in the letter should be a description of job duties as they relate to the field of fire investigation. At least three to five years fire service experience or equivalent related training required. Students should be familiar with NFPA 921 and 1033. The SCFA registration form, letters of endorsement from the organization head, and student resume must be on file at least 30 days prior to the start of the course. Background/reference checks will be utilized to assist in determining student eligibility.
- Contact Hours: 80
- This course is designed to address the job requirements for the new fire investigator as it relates to NFPA 922 and 1033, as well as local and state protocols. Topics include South Carolina law, fire behavior, building construction and fire investigation, point of origin, accidental, and incendiary fire causes. Other areas covered will include the motivation of the fire-setter, fire photography, fire scene sketching, scene investigation, legal aspects, interviewing and interrogation, evidence collection and preservation, forensic lab service, RICO statutes, and investigative field reports.
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