Under the direction of the Fire Marshal the Fire Investigation Unit is composed of one full-time fire investigator, working in conjunction with specially trained suppression personnel who serve as shift investigators. All investigators meet or exceed the minimum qualifications set forth in NFPA 1033 Professional Qualifications for the Fire Investigator.

It shall be the policy of the Fire Investigation Unit (FIU) to initiate investigations to determine the origin and cause of fires; and for criminal fires, to establish the “Corpus Delicti”.

It shall be the responsibility of each Fire Investigator to ensure the prompt and efficient investigation of all fires assigned within the City of West Covina, by performing a fire origin & cause investigation using a systematic approach. This systematic approach is that of a scientific method, which supports organizational uniformity, collaboration and analytical processes essential for a successful fire investigation. The investigation shall include the classification of the fire cause to be determined as one of the following:

• Accidental
• Natural
• Incendiary
• Undetermined

On all incendiary fires, the FIU will work diligently to identify and prosecute persons found to be responsible for incendiary fires in a collaborate effort with the West Covina Police Department. These efforts include fire scene examination, taking statements, assisting in collection of evidence and case development.

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