Fire Investigations

Associate of Applied Science Degree

(575) 527-7746

Fire investigations is a complex career field that involves multiple disciplines, including the criminal justice system. Fire investigators must be analytical, as well as knowledgeable in criminal investigations, the rule of law, and arrest, search and seizure. They usually rely on scientific principles and research in an analysis of fire remains to determine the cause and origin of the fire. Investigators work to determine whether the fire was deliberately set and what contributed to its subsequent growth. These findings can become an integral part of a criminal investigation that may require legal action to be taken against the responsible party.

Fire investigation findings can also be used in the evaluation of existing fire codes and development of legislation to prevent and reduce the loss of life and property due to fire. The fire investigations program provides the fire student with a basic foundation in fire science and law enforcement to actively seek a career in the field of fire investigations.