CFPS CFPS - Certified Fire Protection Specialist Fire Investigation Principles Questions and Answers 2

Question 1

In fire investigation, 'spoliation of evidence' refers to:

Accepted Answer

The loss, destruction, or material alteration of evidence that may be needed in litigation

Answer

The collection and cataloging of physical evidence at the scene

Answer

The chemical analysis of accelerant residues

Answer

The photographic documentation of burn patterns

Question 2

Which laboratory technique is most commonly used to detect and identify ignitable liquid accelerants in fire debris samples?

Accepted Answer

Gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC-MS)

Answer

Scanning electron microscopy (SEM)

Answer

Infrared thermography

Answer

X-ray fluorescence (XRF)

Question 3

NFPA 1033 establishes minimum professional qualifications for:

Accepted Answer

Fire investigators

Answer

Fire protection engineers

Answer

Fire sprinkler designers

Answer

Emergency response coordinators

Question 4

A 'low burn' pattern at a fire scene — char or burning damage that extends to or near the floor level — may indicate:

Accepted Answer

Use of an accelerant poured on the floor or a near-floor ignition source

Answer

Structural collapse from above

Answer

Roof ventilation failure

Answer

Suppression system overpressure

Question 5

In documenting a fire scene, investigators should photograph evidence in what order?

Accepted Answer

Overall orientation views first, then mid-range, then close-up detail

Answer

Close-up first, then mid-range, then overall

Answer

Evidence is collected before any photographs are taken

Answer

Only the area of origin needs to be photographed

Question 6

Which of the following is an example of a 'natural' cause of fire?

Accepted Answer

Lightning strike igniting a structure

Answer

A cigarette left unattended on upholstery

Answer

An electrical short circuit in faulty wiring

Answer

A child playing with matches