What is the purpose of a fire department's function regarding fire investigations?

The primary purpose of a fire department's function in relation to fire investigations is to determine the cause and origin of a fire. This essential process involves gathering evidence, analyzing the scene, and applying forensic techniques to ascertain how and why a fire started. Understanding the cause of a fire is crucial for several reasons: it helps in preventing future incidents by identifying potential hazards, it can reveal arson or criminal activity, and it contributes to the knowledge base that informs fire response tactics and safety measures.

While assessing damage for insurance purposes, enforcing building codes, and providing public education on fire safety are also important functions of a fire department, these activities are secondary to the fundamental investigative role. The investigation lays the groundwork for informed decisions and actions in these other areas. Therefore, establishing the cause and origin of a fire remains the central focus and primary purpose of fire investigations.