10. Forest fires. Techniques of scientific technical collection on topsoil crossed by fires for the detection of the causes of ignition. Basic Course
Course Objectives
To provide the scientific technical methodology necessary to carry out collection activities on forest topsoil crossed by fire, aimed at identifying, in an objective and scientific way, the place of injection (ignition) of the fire and the cause of the event examined.
To introduce the concept of operational criminal analysis to the phenomenon of forest fires (treatment and resolution of the individual case).
Programme
This programme has been planned to provide learners with the scientific technical methodology necessary to carry out the collection activities on forest topsoil hit by fire, aimed at identifying, in an objective and scientific way, the potential outbreak of a fire (ignition) and the cause of the fire event to be investigated.
The methodology in question is based on the scientific theories described in the “Method of Physical Evidence” (MEF). These methods can be used to identify the physical evidence left by the fire on the forest species, so as to lead the investigator to the place of origin of the fire. Once the point of initiation of the fire has been identified, the operator in charge must be able to carry out the so-called “Operational Protocol of Collection” (POR) on site. This Protocol, by means of a sequence of 16 steps, allows for detection and collection in line with the best forensic practices, the residues of the triggers or the partially unburnt incendiary devices used to ignite the forest fire.
The educational programme has been designed to ensure the best use of the skills described above, alternating periods in the classroom and exercises in open field on wooded surfaces affected by the flames.