BRIEF HISTORY

Legend
 Stories Passed from Ancestors to Descendants

BALL OF FIRE
 Source for everything

HEPHAESTUS
 Greek mythology is the GOD of Fire and Metal-work the son of GOD Zeus and
Goddess of Hera Married to “AGLAIA APHRODITE” Goddess of love, one of the
graces

MOUNT ETNA
 Volcano in Sicily where location of workshop. Here he made their weapons and
jewelry.

“CULTURE HERO MAUI”

 Polynesian Cook Islanders of the South Pacific learned the art to make and
produce fire by rubbing two (2) sticks together.

AFTER DEATH
 In AD 60 Emperor Nero formed a group of firefighter’s form a “ BUCKET
BRIGADE” also called the “VIGILES” (VIGILANTES) to combat fires using water
buckets and pumps. The vigils patrolled the street of Rome to watch for fires and
served also as a police force. When there was a fire, the firefighters would line
up to the nearest water source and pass buckets hand in hand to the fire.

200 BC
 First firefighting equipment piston pump was invented by “CTESBIUS” and was
called siphon.

100BC
 The Emperor of Trojan was the ruler of the Rome. “PLINY THE YOUNGER” was
the Governor of Bithynia and coincidentally known as the great person who made
the universal badge/seal of the fire service known as “ MALTA CROSS”.

1648
 Governor PETER STUVESANT was the Governor of Amsterdam (New York) when
the first fire Department in the world establish without firefighting equipment,
they were organized only by means of the Fire Prevention known as “BUILDING
INSPECTOR”.

1666
 The Great Fire o London swept through the city in September 1666 devastating
many buildings including 13,200 hectares, these known as the “TURNING
POINT” of the fire service

1667
 DR. NICOLAS BARTON owner of the Phoenix insurance Company, who privately
organized and established the first Fire Department, with the firefighting
equipment/apparatus.
1840
 PAUL HODGE, build the first steam powered water engine in NEWYORK but he
failed

1852
 “MOSES LATTA” build powered water engine which was finally succeed in the
Cinciatti
1896
 The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) was organized.
AIMED:
Promote the Science and Method of Fire Protection
Secure Cooperation among each member to be able to safeguard Life and Property
by fires
OBJECTIVES:
To prevent fire from starting
To save lives and property
To continue the fire in its point of origin
To put out the fire

1911
 The historical “ Great London Fire”, New York where 146 died became one of the
open eyes of the government to control and take over the Fire Department.

1914-1918
 The Great Fire Fighters was known in France called “REGIMEN OF POMPIER”
this was on first World War.
MALTA CROSS
The Universal Badge of the Fire Service

1901
 On August 7, 1901. The first Manila Fire Department established during the
American Occupation, under the supervision of Hugh Bonner “ Chief Bonner”

1935
 On October 1935 the first Filipino Fire Chief in the Name of “Captain Lorenzo
Jacinto” was appointed and became the American policy to transfer the reign of
responsibilities to Filipinos.

1940
 The Fire Department was established in neighboring cities, municipalities and
towns each had their own organizational set-up.

1973
 The “ FIRE SERVICE RECOGNITION DAY”, pursuant to Presidential
proclamation No. 1312 issued by the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos signed
on his behalf by executive secretary Melchor in commemoration to the
unforgettable Fire incident during the Meralco Rockwell Power Plant Fire in
Makati, Metro Manila on the 14th dy of December 1973.
1975
 Integration of the Local Fire Department in City/Municipality Police Forces under
the National Police Organization called Philippine Constabulary/Integrated
National Police (PC/INP).

1976
 President Ferdinand E. Marcos issued proclamation No. 115 – A on 17 November
1976 making the month of March and every year thereafter as the observance of
“Fire safety Month” – Fire Prevention Month”.

1977
 Highlighted by the promulgation of PD 1185, known as the Fire Code of the
Philippines on August 26, 1977 and the complete publication of the Arson
Investigation of Anti Arson Task Force (AATF) under C-2, PC/INP.

1990
 Republic Act No. 6975 was enacted establishing a separate Fire protection
Bureau designated to be a national in scope and civilian in character.

1991
 August 2, 1991 considered as the Inaugural date of BFP official function marked
by its preparation of Operation Plans and Budget (OPB).

1993
 The BFP Personnel Manual (BFP-PM) was established in consonance with the
CSC “Panibagong Sigla 2000” Waica Requires Among others, government
agencies to establish and Institutionalize a standard Personnel Procedures in the
area of (a) qualification standard, (b) Merit Promotional Plan (c) Performance
Evaluation System, (d) Employer suggestions and Incentive Awards System and
(e) Grievance machinery, which was implemented January 2, 1994. This BFP
Personnel Manual (BFP-PM) was signed by Chief Supt. Alfonso T. Clemente, BFP,
Official-in-Charge; Hon. Alexander P. Aguiree, Under Secretary of DILG; and
Approved by Hon. Rafael M. Alunan III, Secretary of DILG.

1996
 By the President of the Philippines, Memorandum No. 371 Dated may 15, 1996,
creating an Inter-Agency task force to fast tract investigation of suspicious fire
incidents in government offices and heavily-insured buildings. They called as
“Inter Agency Anti Arson Task Force” IATF).

1999
 Highlighted by the launching and MOA signing of project EARNET on August 28,
1999 and putting into operation “The Fire Control Operation Center (FCOC)
which coordinated the dispatch of the firefighting apparatus, ACLS Ambulance
and 99 type Rescue vehicle as BFP/ assures a lead role in “Public Safety”.

2001
 Under Memo Circular no. 2001-71 dated December 3, 2001. Signed by then Sec.
Jose D. Lina Jr. The (BFP) Bureau of Fire Protection aims to be dynamic,
professional and strong organization, so they give the best exemplified in the
formulation of “BFP Firefighters Institutional and Regulations and Ethical
Standards” (BFP-FIRES), as it articulates the professional obligations and norms
of conduct and behavior of personnel within organization, so formed to performed
mandated duties and function in furtherance of national safety, security and
development.

2003
 March 2003. Highlighted the |BFP’s Year-Round Fire-Safety Awareness
Campaigns Program” prepared and organized by the management committee
meeting which was fear headed by Hon. Jose D. Lina Jr. Secretary of DILG. To
counteract the negative publicity against the government bureaucracy. This
 newsworthy program considered its role in improving local governance and in the
maintenance of Peace and Order and Public Safety.

2008
 Republic Act No. 9514 “ New Fire Code” an act establishing a comprehensive fire
code of the Philippines repealing Presidential Degree No. 1185 and for other
purposes. Approved and signed by her Excellency Gloria Macapagal Arroyo,
President of the Philippines on December 19, 2008.

Criminal Justice System

1. Law enforcement
2. Prosecution
3. Court
4. Community

Benefits in learning Fire Fighting

1. Save life
2. Save Property
3. Self Confidence
4. Self Prestige
5. Advancement Opportunity
6. Employment Opportunity
7. Good Source of Income
 CHEMISTRY OF FIRES

FIRE
 Is a rapid self-sustaining oxidation process accompanied by the evolution of the
heat and light in varying intensities.
 Is a chemical reaction known as “combustion”. It also defined as a rapid
oxidation of combustion materials accompanied by release of energy in the form
of heat and light.
 It’s combustion of the three (3) elements Heat, Fuel and Oxygen.

CONFLAGRATION
 A large fire that causes a great deal damage.

COMBUSTION
 Described as a self-sustaining chemical reaction yielding energy or products that
cause further reaction of the same kind.
 A chemical reaction that releases energy as heat and usually light

OXIDATION
 The process of combining a substance with oxygen (usually Air) in the process of
heat.

FLAMES
 It’s the luminous body of a burning gas which gets hotter and less luminous when
mixed with more oxygen.
 It is the manipulation of the fire when the fire is in gas phased combustion.

THEORIES OF COMBUSTION

THEORY: Three (3) ways to extinguish Fire

1. Remove the fuel
2. Cut-off the oxygen supply
3. Reduce the temperature (cooling)

HEAT
 A form of energy generated by transmission of source other form of energy, as in
combustion and burning.

Heat Sources
 Open flames
 Electric circuit
 Sparks
 Hot surface
 Friction (rubbing, rasping)
 All sources of ignition
 Explosions
 Detonation
 Blass-off
OXYGEN
 A colorless. Odorless gas and one of the composition of air which is approximately
21% by volume.
“oxygen Sources”
 21% of normal oxygen
 78% of nitrogen
 1% of argon
“Oxygen requirements”
 12% no fire
 14% flash point (Blaze point or burst point)
 21% Rene point

FUEL
 Any substance react chemically with oxygen and produce flames.

SOLID FUELS
 Refers to various forms of solid material that can be burn to release energy,
providing heats and light through the process of combustion. Molecules are
closely packed together.

A. BULKY B. DUST C. FINELY DIVIDED

Coal Saw dust Plastic
Wood Sugar Paper
Wax Grain Cork
Grease Others Leather

LIQUID FUEL
 Are combustible or energy-generating molecules that can be burn harnessed to
create mechanical energy usually producing kinetic energy; they also must take
the shape of the container. Molecules are loosely packed.
Samples of liquid fuel
 Gasoline
 Kerosene
 Turpentine (mixture or used as paint thinner)
 Alcohol
 Cod liver oil
 Paint
 Varnish
 Lacquer (polish, Gloss)
 Olive oil (Lime)

GAS
 Is one of a number of fuels that under ordinary conditions are gaseous. Molecules
are free to move.
Example of gases
 Natural Gas (ordinary gas)
 Propane (Colorless gas found in natural gs petroleum used as a fuel)
 Butane (Occurs in natural gas; used in the manufacturer of rubber fuels)
 Hydrogen ( ( a non-metallic univalent a colorless and odorless highly
flammable
 Diatomic gas (the simplest, lightest most abundant element in the
universe)
THE FIRE TETRAHEDRON

 In order for the fire to occur four (4) things must be present the fuel, oxygen, heat
and chemical reaction. This represent by the fire tetrahedron.
 When any of the four types are remove the fire will go out.
Fire extinguishers function by removing one of the four components of fire
tetrahedron
FOUR (4) components/elements
1. Oxygen/Oxidizing Agent
2. Fuel/Reducing Agent
3. Heat/Temperature
4. Chemical reaction/Chain reaction
Oxygen/Oxidizing Agent
 Are those materials that yield oxygen or other oxidizing gases during the process
of a chemical reaction.
 (An oxidizing Agent) is a material or substance that when the proper conditions
exist will release gases, including oxygen. This crucial to the sustainment of
flame of fire.

Fuel/ Reducing Agent

 It is substance or material that is being oxidized or burned in the combustion
process.
 The most common fuel contain along with the combinations of hydrogen and
oxygen.

Heat/ Temperature
 It is energy component of the tetrahedron. When heat comes into contact with a
fuel, it provides the energy necessary for ignition, causes the continuous
production and ignition of fuel of gases so that the combustion reaction can
continue, and cause the vaporization of solid and liquid to gas.
 The self-sustained comical reaction is a complex that requires a fuel, an oxidizer
and heat energy to come together in very specific way.
 A chain reaction being added to the rest.
 This happens in the science of fire, but it is self-sustaining, it continues without
interruption.

Chemical Reaction
 This type of reaction is called the “chain reaction”
 A series of reaction that occur in sequence with the result of each individual
reaction being added to the rest.

 Fire start when a flammable or combustible material, with an adequate supply of

oxygen, gas and another oxidizer is subject to enough heat and able to sustain a
chain reaction. “FIRE TETRAHEDRON”

Spontaneous Combustion/Ignition
 This source if the inherent characteristic of the material involved cause an
EXORTHERMIC HEAT; producing, chemical reaction to proceeds without any
exposure to external source of spark or abnormal heat.
EXOTHERMIC HEAT
 Characterized by an evolution of heat.
 BEHAVIOR OF FIRE
 Used to describe the magnitude, direction and intensity of fire spread.
 Magnitude is a measures as the velocity direction
 Direction is measured at the bearing of the leading edge of the fire, and
varies from 0 to 360 degrees.
 Intensity is measured as the energy release from the fire per unit area, in
jules/sq. meter.

Three (3) Types of Energy

1. Chemical Energy
 It is the most common source of heat in combustion reaction.
 When any combustion is in contact with oxygen oxidation occurs, the
reactions of this process results in the production of heat.
2. Electrical Energy
 Can generate temperature high enough to ignite any combustible
materials near the heated area.
 Factors involving electrical heating
a. Current flow through a resistance
b. Over current or over load
c. Arching
d. Sparkling
e. Static
f. Lighting
3. Nuclear Energy
 Nuclear heat energy is generated when atoms either split apart (fission or
combine fusion)
Example:
a. Fission heats water to drive steam combines and produce electricity
b. The solar energy is a product of a fusion reaction ( A form of nuclear
energy).

Transmission of Heat

Conduction
 Point to point
transmission of heat
energy or direct
contact with a heat
source radiation.
 Radiation
 Transfer by heat energy through
light by electrometric waves, which is
also called radiated heat.

Convection
 Transfer of heat the
movement of fluids or
gases, usually when
upward direction.

Flame Contact
 Direct flame contact; heat may be
conducted form one body to another by
direct flames contact.

Product of combustion
Fire gases - Vaporized product to combustion flame
Flame - Viable numinous body touring.
Heat - Form of energy produced by combustion and responsible for the spread of
Source - A product of incomplete combustion

Three (3) Stages of Temperature

1. Flash Point
 Is the lowest temperature at which a substance will give off sufficient vapor
to flash the surface when a flame applied.
2. Fire Point
 Is the lowest temperature at which substance will give of sufficient vapor
to continue to burn when ignited.
3. Ignition Temperature
 Is the lowest temperature also at which a substance will spontaneously
ignite even without the application of spark or flame or any ignition source.
Types of Poisonous Gases

1. Hydrogen Sulfide (H2S)

 A fire gas formed fires involving organic containing sulfur; such as rubber,
hair, weeds, a meat and hides. It’s colorless highly toxic gas with a strong
odor like “rot-ten egg” exposure for even a short time is dangerous. It will
ignite at 500OF (260OC).
2. Hydrogen Cyanide (HCN)
 Sometimes called prussic acid, a toxic gas found starve fire involving
nitrogen containing materials such as wool, silk urethane, polyamides and
acrylics. This gas used as fumigants which can pose serious danger to
firefighters working in recently from gated building. Hydrogen cyanide
smells like almonds which may not be easily detected and flammable liquid
that boils slightly above room temperature, at 25.6OC (78.1OF)
3. Hydrogen Chloride (HCL)
 A gas which can be fatal only a few breaths are produced in fires involving
chloride-containing plastics. Plastic can be found anywhere from
furnishing to electrical insulation, conduct and piping’s.

Types of Flames

Luminous Flame
 A reddish – orange in color; it deposits scot because it is a product of
incomplete combustion; it has lowest temperature.
Non-Luminous Flame
 A bluish in color; it does not deposit soot because it is product of complete
combustible flame.

According to burning fuel and air mixture

Premixed Flame
 Example of a Bunsen burner
Diffusion Flame
 Example of flame is the oxyacetylene torch (diffused-dispersed; widely
spread)

Based on Smoothness
Laminar flames (smooth flame)
 Flame is laminar when a particle follows a smooth path through a gaseous
flame.
Turbulent (rough flame)
 Those having unsteady irregular swirls and eddies.

PYROLYSIS
 Is refers to the chemical process whereby fire consumers, the most solid
part of the fuel
 It is the thermal decomposition of a solid fuels through the action of heat.

Color of smoke
White
 Ordinary combustible at its recipient
Black
 Incomplete combustion CH2 based materials. Indicate carbon monoxide.
Brown and Red Brown
 Sulfur based materials during irritating gases, toxic gasses, SO2, nitrate
acid, plastic firm and smoke gases.
Classification of fire

CLASSES OF FIRE
CLASS MATERIAL EXTINGUISHING EXTINGUISHING
METHOD AGENT
A Rubbish, trash, Cooling-cool below flash Water (H2O)
wood or any point(Remove heat)
light materials
B Flammable l, Blanketing/smoldering Dry and liquid
gasoline, diesel or cut off oxygen supply chemical, light
and others (remove oxygen) water
C Electrical Switch-off oxygen and Dry and liquid
cool below flash point chemical, light
water
D Metal, Thermate, Cut-off oxygen and cool Dry and liquidize
sodium etc. below flash point chemical large
amount of water
E Petroleum gas, Cut-off gas supply or (CO2) dry powder of
LPG, Butane, cut-off supply valve foam
Methane and
others
F Spontaneous Remove subject material H20, CO2, dry
combustible powder and any fire
materials; oily extinguisher
rugs, fats fires

Based on caused
1. Natural fire
 Fortuitous event or natural calamity made by/from God.
2. Accident
 Through negligence and lack of skill/ or safety education.
3. Intentional/incendiary
 Malicious done, or (cruelty) felony with deceit or evil intent to set or cause
fire.
4. Undetermined
 Self-explanatory to investigated thoroughly for real cause of fire.
PYROMANIAC
 A person with a mania for setting through a fire (arsonist)

Based on burning fuel

1. Class A
 Materials involving vegetable fabric, wood, cloth, paper, rubber, plastic etc,
light materials.
2. Class B
 Materials involving petroleum such as gasoline, fuel oils, lubricants etc.
3. Class C
 Combustible metals, alloys or metal compounds either in solid or liquid
state, magnesium sodium, potassium, titanium etc.
4. Class D
 Combustible metals, alloys or metal compounds either in solid or liquid
state, magnesium sodium, potassium, titanium etc.
5. Class E
 LPG, butane, methane, and others
6. Class K
 Materials involves in the kitchen fire.
Stages of fire development

1. Ignition
 It occur when four elements of fire
tetrahedron or fire triangle come together
and combustion begun.

2. Growth
 Fire flame (cloud) begins to
occur from above the
burning fuel.

3. Flashover
 The state of fire as which all
combustibles are heated to their ignition
temperature and the area becomes fully
involve in the transition between the
growth and fully developed fire.

4. Fully developed
 Occurs when all combustible
materials in the
compartment are involved in
fire. Burning fuels are
releasing the maximum
amount of heat possible for
the available fuel package
and producing large volume
of the gases.

5. Decay
 Occurs when the fuel is consumed by
the fire in a fuel controlled fire (Fuel-
Regulated Fire) Oxygen becomes depleted
in a ventilation controlled fire (Air
Regulated Fire). It continues until the fire
is completely out.
Special Consideration

1. Back draft
 An explosive force that
occur during the decay
period (grow moldy) when a
sudden introduction of
oxygen is brought up in an
air-regulated fire.

2. Flames over/Roll over

 A condition on where flame
moves through or cross the
unburned gases during the fire
progress on. Distinguish from
flashover by its involvement of
only the fire gases and not the
surfaces of other fuel packages.
Occurs during the growth stages
forms the ceiling of the
compartment.

3. Thermal layering of Gases

The tendency of gases to form into
layers according to temperature,
other term tend to describe these are
heat stratification and thermal
balance.
 BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION
Four (4) major Aspects of the Bureau of Fire Protection

 Fire Prevention 70%

 Fire Suppression 10%
 Fire Investigation 10%
 Fire Aid and Rescue Operation 10%

“LESS FIRE INCIDENT MEANS EFFECTIVE FIRE PREVENTION”

COMPREHENSIVE FIRE CODE OF THE PHILIPINES

Republic Act 9514 of 2008

Coverage of the Republic Act 9514

All persons;

A. All private or public buildings, facilities or structures and their premises erected
or constructed before and after the effectivity hereof;

B. Design and installation of mechanical, electronics and electrical systems

relative to fire protection;

C. Manufacturing, storage, handling and/or use, and transportation of explosives

and/or combustible, flammable liquids and gases, toxic and other hazardous
materials and operations, and their wastes;

D. Fire safety planning, design, construction, repair, maintenance, rehabilitation

and demolition;

E. Fire protective and warning equipment or systems;

F. All land transportation vehicles and equipment, ships or vessels docked at piers
or wharves or anchored in seaports; and

G. Petroleum industry installations.

Assistance and support to the BFP

 Philippines national Police (PNP)

 Local Government Unit (LGU)
 National Bureau of Investigation of (NBI)
 National and Local Waterworks
 Electric Companies and Cooperatives
 Department of Transportation and Communication (DOTC)
 Department of Education (DepED)
 Commission on Higher Education (CHED)
 Department of Trade and Industry (DTI)
 Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA)
 Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR)

Authority of the Chief, Bureau of Fire Protection General Authority to

Administer and enforce RA 9514 and its IRR
 The administration and enforcement of the fire code and this IRR shall be under
the direct supervision and control; of the Chef, BFP, through the supervision and
control of the Chief BFP through hierarchy of organization as provided for
Chapter VI of Republic Act N. 6975, the DILG Reorganization Act of 1990 as
 amended by Republic Act N. 9263, The bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) and
Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP) Professionalization Act of 2004.

AUTHORITY OF THE CHIEF, BFP SUBJECT TO APPROVAL OF DILG

 The Chief, BFP, with the approval of the Secretary, DILG, is hereby authorized
to:
A. Issue implementing rules and regulations, and prescribe standards, schedules of
fees/fire service charges and administrative penalties therefore as provided in the
pertinent provisions of the Fire Code;
B. Reorganize the BFP as may be necessary and appropriate;
C. Enter into long term agreement, either through public biddings or negotiations
in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act No. 9184, otherwise known as
the Government Procurement Reform Act of 2003, for the acquisition of fire
prevention, fire protection and firefighting investigation, rescue, paramedics,
hazardous material handling equipment , supplies, materials and related
technical services necessary for fire service;
D. Enter into Memoranda of Agreement with other department, bureaus, agencies,
offices and corporations of the government, as well as private institutions, in
order to define areas of cooperation and coordination and delineate responsibility
of fire prevention education, fire safety, fire prevention, fire suppression and other
matters of common concern.

FIRE BRIGADE, FIRE VOLUNTER ORGANIZATIONS AND FIRE SAFETY

PRACTITIONERS

The organization of Fire Brigade is requirement to the following

1. All business establishments employing at least fifty (50) persons shall, in

addition to the requirements set forth under Section 7 of RA 9514 for the grant
of Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC), establish an organization of fire
brigade to deal with fire and other related emergencies. (Sec. 7, RA 9514)
2. For buildings having various occupancies, the Building Administrator and/or
owner shall initiate the organization of a fire brigade in the premises irrespective
of the number of occupants.
3. In cases where a fire brigade is already established for a building, said fire brigade
shall be sufficient to comply with the requirements of IRR.
4. All barangays shall likewise endeavor to organize their own Fire Brigades.

CERTIFICATE OF COMPETENCY
 shall be issued to fire volunteers, members of fire brigades and fire safety
practitioners after completion of the mandatory training and competency
evaluations conducted by the BFP and upon submission of the following
documentary requirements:
 Certificate of completion of the fire suppression training;
 Personal profile;
 Certificate of employment, in the case of fire safety practitioners; and
 Other documents the BFP may require.

RULE 8. FIRE SAFETY ENFORCERS

CHAPTER 1. QUALIFICATIONS OF FIRE SAFETY ENFORCERS

DIVISION 1. MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

 BFP personnel duly designated as Fire Safety Enforcers shall possess minimum
required qualification standard stated herein.

SECTION 8.1.1.1 FIRE SAFETY INSPECTORS

A. UNIFORMED PERSONNEL
1. Licensed Engineer (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, Sanitary and Electronic
and Communication); or Architect with at least one (1) year in the BFP service; or
Graduate of any baccalaureate degree course with at least three (3) years in the BFP
service;
2. Shall have completed Fire Arson Investigation and Inspection Course (FAIIC); or have
undergone at least forty (40) hours of relevant seminars/workshops on the Fire Code of
the Philippines of 2008 and other relevant fire safety seminars/workshops; and
3. Non-licensed and non-engineering graduate must pass the written fire safety
inspection examination conducted by the BFP.

B. NON- UNIFORMED PERSONNEL

1. Appointed as Engineers (Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Chemical, Sanitary and
Electronics and Communication; or Appointed as Electrical/Building Inspectors; and
2. Shall have undergone at least forty (40) hours of relevant seminars/workshops on
the Fire Code of the Philippines and other relevant fire safety seminars/workshops.
3. Electrical/building inspectors must pass the written examination conducted by the
BFP, otherwise they can only conduct inspection relative to their appointment’s duties
and functions

FIRE SAFETY INSPECTION CETIFICATE SECTION

SECTION 9.0.4.1 FSIC AS A PRE-REQUISITE FOR ISSUANCE OF PERMIT/LICENSE

Upon compliance of the fire safety requirements under Rule 10 of this IRR, a Fire
Safety Inspection (FSIC) shall be issued by the BFP as a pre – requisite for the
issuance of Business or Mayor’s , Permit to Operate, Occupancy Permit, PHILHEALTH
Accreditation for Hospitals, DOH License to
Operate and other permits or licenses being issued by other government agencies.

FIRE SAFETY CLEARANCE

Fire safety Clearance shall be required for the storage, handling, installation and
transportation of hazardous materials, operations and processes as may be prescribed
in other provisions of this IRR.

Nine (9) Fire Fighting Techniques

1. Pre-Fire Planning
 A firefighting technique of the fire fighter wherein they conducts survey,
trainings and seminars on the community in preventing fire and if it
occurs, and they will know what to do.
 Determining the location of the fire hydrant nearest to the community and
the official map of the community or even an establishment for them, the
firefighters knew what and where there position must be.
 The (EDITH) “Exit Drill In The House” should be lecture and emphasize.

2. Size – up
 Firefighting technique where the fire fighters able to identify ahead of time
what kind of burning fire occurs, through the statement such as location,
kind of burning and others. Sometimes, the dense smoke will also tell the
firefighters the kind fire.

3. Forcible entry
 Firefighting technique where the firefighters forcible entered the burning
establishment because of the fire to avoid spreading out of it.

4. Cover Exposure
 Firefighting techniques where the firefighters strike those adjacent
building or houses which do not yet nearest to the building structures
 having the 50% above status of burning to void radiation hat or any heat
transfer that may cause spread of fire.

5. Ventilation
 One of the risks of a fire is the smoke; it carries heat and poisonous gases,
an obscure vision. In the case of a fire in a closed location (building). Two
different strategies may be used; isolation of the fire and ventilation.

6. Salvage
 A fire technique where firefighters save properties according to each
priority,
Color code
 RED – first priority
 BLUE – second priority
 YELLOW – Less priority.
7. Rescue
 Firefighting technique where the fire fighters save lives on burning
structures.
 RED 1st
 YELLOW 2nd
 GREE N 3rd
 BLACK Last

8. Extinguishment
 Firefighting technique of the fire fighters on the process of putting off the
fire. In extinguishing fire, recall of the fire triangle and fire tetrahedron,
that by simply separating of two or more element of the fire it will be
extinguished.
Extinguishing Agents.
 Water
 Sea water
 Sand
 Mud
 Rug/or cloth
 Fire Extinguisher
 AFFF (foam)

9. Overhauling
 A firefighting technique where the firefighters having a hardship in
searching on totally putting out the fire up to deep hidden fire extension
that should be extinguished to prevent the rekindling.

Fire Service Activities

1. Fire Prevention
 It is intended to reduce source of ignition, and it’s partially focused on
programs to educate people from starting fire.

2. Fire Fighting
 Is the act of extinguishing destructive fires. Fire fighters fight these fires
to prevent destruction of life, property and environment. Firefighting is
 highly technical professions which requires years of training and
education in order to become proficient.

3. Fire Control
 It consist of depraving a fire fuel – reducing agent, oxygen – oxidizing agent,
heat of the chemical chain reaction that are necessary to sustain itself or
rekindle it.

4. Fire Safety
 To precautions that are taken to prevent or reduce the likelihood of the fire
death, injury or property damage. Alert those structure to the presence of
fire in the event one occurs. Better those threatened by fire to survive, or
to reduce the damage caused by a fire.

5. Fire Protection
 Is the study and practice of mitigating the unwanted effects of fire.

6. Law enforcement
 Enforce the fire code, building code, electrical code and other related laws.
This will be implemented by the firefighters fire safety inspectors on the,
compliance of the latter.

THE PROSPERITY ENVISIONED OF THE FIRE BUREAU WILL BE ACHIEVED

WITHOUT HINDRANCE OF IMPEDIMENT, IF THE PUBLIC DO ITS PART IN THE TASK
OF MAKING FIRE PREVENTION A PERMANENT WAY OF LIFE. THERE IS A NEED
TO DEVELOP NATIONAL CONCIOUSNESS AND INVOLVEMENT OF ALL INDIVIDUALS
IN THE PREVENTION AND SUPPRESSION OF FIRE, TO HAVE THE WAY, FOR A
CONTINUOUS ECONOMIC PROGRESS; AND WE WILL NOT FORGET THAT FIRE
PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN EXTINGUISHING AND CONTROL OF FIRE.

THE PREVIOUS OCCURRENCE OF SENSATIONAL FIRE INCIDENCE,

DISASTERS AND CALAMITIES THAT THE FIRE FIGHTERS GIVES A GREATER ROLE
AND FURTHER HIGHLIGHTED THE IMPERATIVE ROLE OF THE BFP AS THE MAJOR
STOCKHOLDER IN THE PROMOTION OF PUBLIC SAFETY. SO, THE FIRE BUREAU
HAS RISEN TO THESE CHALLENGES DEDICATEDLY RESPONDING AND PROUDLY
DECLARING, BFP MEANS “ PUBLIC SAFETY”.
 FIRE PREVENTION
 Encompasses all means used of fire service to Decrease the incidence of
uncontrolled fire.

 The term “Fire Prevention” is used to include all the activities necessary to help
and prevent the origin and spread of fire.

 One of the important functions of many fire departments. The goal of fire
prevention is to educate the public to take precautions to prevent potentially
harmful fires, and be educated about surviving them. It is proactive method of
reducing emergencies and the damage caused by them.

Methods of fire Prevention

 Employed by the service involve a combination of engineering, education and

enforcement.

Engineering

 Good engineering practice cn do such to provide built in safeguard that help to

prevent fire from starting, such practice also help to limit the spread of the fire
that will occur.

Education

 Is the method used to instruct and inform group and individuals on the dangers
of fire and its possible effects.

Enforcement

 Is the legal means of correcting deficiencies that pose a threat to life and
property enforcement is implemented when other method fail.

Fire Inspection

 Is the systematic procedure for the service work/task in order to determine the
classification and seven (7) factors of the fire hazards for evaluation, review and
implementation of necessary fire protection and fire safety measure of building
or structure.
FIRE PREVENTION IN YOUR WORKPLACE CONSISTS OF FOUR STEPS:

1. Implement a program that includes preparation, prevention, and recognition

of fire hazards.
2. Make sure you practice proper handling of combustible and flammable
material.
3. Maintain safe housekeeping practices that reduce the risk of fire danger.
4. Always keep adequate fire suppression equipment in your work area to
extinguish fire before it goes out of control.

FIRE HAZARD

 Fire hazards include all types of live flames, cause of sparks, hot objects and
chemicals that are potential for ignition, or that can aggravate a fire to become
large and uncontrolled. Fire hazards also include all types of potential threats
to fire prevention practices, firefighting, built-in fire safety systems and
situations that restrict the escape of people from an affected building or area in
the event of a fire.

Classification of fire Hazard or Degree of Hazard

1. Light (low) Hazard

 Those of such low combustibility that no self-propagating fire therein can
occur and that consequently, the one probable danger requiring that use
of emergency exits will be from panic, fumes or smoke or fire from some
external source.

2. Ordinary (Moderate) Hazard

 Those neither which liable to burn with moderate rapidly or to give off a
considerable volume of smoke but from which nor poisonous fume. Not
explosions are to be expected in the event of fire.

3. Extra(High) Hazard
 Those which are liable to burn with extreme rapidly or from which
poisonous gasses or explosions are to be expected in the event of fire.

Seven (7) Factors of Fire Hazard

1. Types of Occupancy
2. Height of Building
3. Travel distance of floor area
4. Contents of building
5. Construction Materials Used/ Structure of Building
6. Occupant Load
7. Fire Prevention System
The following fire hazards are common at home, in public places, transports and
work places:
 All types of flames used for any work
 Alcohol and fire
 Candles
 Lighting
 Electric wires, higher loads, loose connections and old electrical equipment
 All cooking and heat generating appliances
 All works and situations where fire is essential such as welding, cutting, metal
casting etc.
 Improper storage of tools, equipment and items during and at the end of the day’s
work
 Smoking and personal lighters and matches
 Christmas trees, fireworks, pyro techniques, ammunitions and explosives.
 Improper and unauthorized storage of flammable and hazardous materials and
chemicals especially and flammable ones.
 Insufficient capacity and numbers of emergency exits and stairs
 Hindrance to sight or reach firefighting equipment, markings and alarm system
 Insufficient numbers and types of fire extinguishers
 Absence of fire detection and alarm system
 Violation of building and fire codes

The Difference between Fire Protection and Fire Prevention

Fire Protection

 It is a key part of fire protection measures for any business or residence to have
certain advance fire safety procedures in place. These are there in case of
emergency, to act quickly and efficiently should a fire break out. The most
commonly used fire protection measure includes ensuring that the property is
armed with enough equipment to take on a fire in a timely and effective manner.
 Here are several of the most common fire protection equipment
 Heat Detectors
 Fire Alarms
 Smoke Alarms
 Fire Extinguisher
 Automatic Sprinklers
 Automatic Commercial Kitchen Fire Suppression Systems

Fire Prevention

 Fire prevention is taking an approach of doing everything possible to make sure

that a fire does not occur in the place. It is important to be aware of anything
which could cause a fire. There are several things you can do to enact proper fire
prevention. A complete property inspection is the key. Once to know what area
of your home are more vulnerable to fires, you can take the proper precautions

 Here are some things which can cause fires and should be avoided.
 Dirty wood-burning fire places
 Unattended burning candles
 Overloaded electrical outlets
 Leaving small appliance plugged in for extended periods of time.
 Smoking inside and leaving cigarettes unattended
CLASSIFICATION OF OCCUPANCY
A. A building or structure shall be classified as follows:

1. Assembly
a. Assembly occupants include, but are not limited to, all buildings or portions
of buildings used for gathering together of fifty (50) or more persons for such
purpose as deliberation, worships, entertainment, eating, drinking,
amusement, awaiting transportation, or similar uses.
b. Assembly occupancies include theaters; assembly halls; auditorium;
exhibition halls; museum; restaurants; drinking establishments; places of
worship; classrooms of 50 persons and over capacity; libraries; internet shops
of over 50 persons capacity; dance halls, club rooms; skating rinks;
gymnasiums; cockpit arenas; bowling facilities; pools rooms; armories;
passenger stations and terminals of air , surface, underground, and marine
public transportation facilities; recreational facilities; pier; court-rooms;
conference rooms; and mortuary chapels or funeral homes.
c. Restaurants and drinking establishments with an occupant load of less than
50 persons shall be classified as mercantile occupancies.
d. Occupancy of any room or space for assembly purpose by less than fifty (50)
persons in a building of other occupancy and incidental to such other
occupancy shall be classified as part of the other occupancy and subject to
the provisions applicable thereto.

2. Educational
a. Educational occupancies include all buildings or portions thereof used for the
gathering of group of six (6) or more persons for purpose of instruction.
b. Educational occupancies include: Schools; Universities, Colleges; Academies;
Nursery schools; kinder garden; and Child Day Care facilities.
c. Other occupancies associated with educational institutions shall be in
accordance with the appropriate parts of this Chapter, except licensed day
care facilities of any capacity.
d. In case where instruction is incidental to some other occupancy, the Section
of the Chapter governing such other occupancy.

3. Health Care
a. Health care facilities are those used for purpose of medical and other
treatment or care of persons where such occupants are mostly incapable of
self-preservation because of age, physical or mental disability, or because of
security measures not under the occupants.
b. Health care facilities include: hospitals; nursing homes; birth centers; and
residential custodial care centers such as nurseries, homes for the aged and
the like.

4. Detention and Correctional

a. Detention and correctional buildings are those used to house one or more
persons under varied degrees of restraint or security where such occupants
are mostly incapable of self –preservation because of security measures not
under the occupants’ control.
b. Detention and correctional occupancies shall include those used for purpose
such as correctional institutions, detention facilities, community residential
centers, training schools, work camps, and substance abuse centers where
occupants are confined or housed under some degree or restraint or security.
5. Residential
a. Residential occupancies are those occupancies in which sleeping
accommodations are provided for normal residential purpose and include all
buildings designed to provide sleeping accommodations.
b. Residential buildings, structure or facilities are treated separately in this Rule
in the following groups; hotels; motels; apartelles; pension houses; inns;
apartments; condominiums; dormitories; lodging or rooming houses; and
one- and two-family dwellings; and the likes.

6. Mercantile
a. Mercantile occupancies include store, markets, and other rooms, buildings,
or structures for the display and/or sale of merchandise.
b. Mercantile occupancies include; malls; supermarkets; departments store;
shopping centers; flea markets; restaurants of less than 50 persons capacity;
public/private dry and wet markets; water refilling stations; drugstores ;
hardware’s/constructions supplies :showrooms; and auction rooms.
c. Minor merchandising operations in building predominantly of other
occupancies, such as newsstand in an office building, shall be subject to the
exit requirement of the predominant occupancy.
d. Office, storage, and service facilities incidental to the sale of merchandise and
located in the same building should be considered part of the mercantile
occupancy classification.

7. Business
a. Business buildings are those used for the transaction of business other than
that covered under Mercantile, for the keeping of accounts and records and
similar purposes.
b. Included in this occupancy group are; offices for lawyers; doctors; dentist and
other professionals; general offices. City/Municipal halls; internet shops;
massage parlors, beauty parlors, barbershops of less than 50 occupants and
court houses;
c. Minor office occupancy incidental to operations in other occupancy shall be
considered as part of the dominant occupancy and shall be subject to the
provisions of the Chapter applying to the dominant occupancy.

8. Industrial
a. Industrial occupancies include factories that make products of all kinds and
properties which shall include but not limited to product processing,
assembling and disassembling, mixing, packaging, finishing or decorating,
repairing and material recovery including, among others, the following;
factories of all kinds; laboratories; dry leaning plants; power plants pumping
stations; smokehouses; gas plants refineries; and sawmills, laundries;
creameries.

9. Storage
a. Storage occupancy includes all buildings or structure utilized primarily for
the storage or sheltering of goods, merchandise, products, vehicles, or
animals. Included in this occupancy group are: warehouse; cold storage;
freight terminals; truck and marine terminals; bulk oil storage; LPG storage;
parking garages; hangars; grain elevators; barns; and stables.
b. Minor storage incidental to other occupancy shall be treated as part of the
other occupancy.
 10. Mixed Occupancies
a. Refers to two or more classes of occupancies occurring /located /situated
/existing in the same building and/or structures so intermingled that separate
safeguards are impracticable.
b. The means of egress shall be sufficient to meet exit requirements for the
occupants of each individual room or section, and for the maximum occupant
load of the entire building. Fire safety construction, protective and warning
system and other safeguards shall met requirement of the most hazardous
occupancy unless otherwise specified in Division 8 through 17 of this Chapter.

11. Miscellaneous
a. This class of occupancy include buildings or structure which cannot be property
classified in any of the preceding occupancy groups such miscellaneous buildings
and structure shall conform to the fundamental guidelines provide for in Division
2 and to any specific provisions applicable thereto in Division 17 both of this
Chapter.

IMPLEMENTATION OF FIRE

THE PROVISION OF FIRE CODE EMPHASIZED THAT ARE PERSONS

AND AL PRIVATE AND PUBLIC BUILDING, FACILITIES OR
STRUCTURES ERECTED OR CONSTRUCTED (PRE-CONTRUCTION,
CONSTRUCTION, POST CONSTRUCTION SHALL COMPLY THE
NECESSARY REQUIREMENT AS MANDATED
 FIRE SUPPRESSION

 Refers to the firefighting tactics used to suppress fire. This firefighting effort
requires techniques, equipment and training in the firefighting more particularly
the fires that can be found in populated area. Fire suppression encompasses
varied activities; firefighting, fire protection, fire control, fire safety or any other
related activities.

Ways of extinguishing fire

1. Cooling or Quenching
 Cooling removes the heat from the fire.

2. Blanketing or smothering
 When water is heated to its boiling point it converts to a gas called water
vapor or steam; it dilutes the oxygen in the air. Revolving the oxygen from
the elements of the fire.

3. Starving or cutting –off

 Removal of the fuel from the combustion which is one of the elements.

4. Chemical flames inhibition

 Extinguishing by dry chemical and halogenated agents that interrupt the
combustion reaction and stop flaming. It’s very effective on gas and liquid
fluids because they must flame to burn.

Structural Fire Protection

 Structural fire protection in land-based-buildings, offshore construction

or on board ships, is typically achieved by three means as follow;

1. Passive Fire Protection

 This is the use of integral, fire-resistance rated wall and floor assembles
that are used to form fire compartment intended to limit the spread of fire,
or firewalls, to keep fires within the fire compartment of origin, thus
enabling firefighting and evacuation.
 2. Active Fire Protection
 This is the manual and automatic detection and suppression of fire, as in
using and installing a fire sprinkler system of finding the fire alarm or
extinguishing it.

3. Fire Safety Education

 It is ensuring that building owners and operators have copies and a
working understanding of the applicable building and fire codes, having a
purpose. Designed fire safety plan and ensuring that building occupants,
operator and emergency personnel know the building.

Fire Protection System

 Commercial and industrial building usually have some sort of internal, or

private , fire protection system installed in structure; as enumerated
hereunder:

1. Sprinkler System
 Is an integrated system of underground and overhead piping, designed
in accordance with fire protection engineering standards, and
connected to one or more automatic water supplies. The system is
usually activated by heat from fire. The Sprinkler heads then discharge
water over the fire area.

2. Standpipe System
 Many high-rise or other large building have an interval system of water
main standpipes, connected to fire-hose stations. Trained occupants
or employees of the building management operate the hoses until the
fire department arrives. Fire fighters can also connect their hose to the
outlets near the fire.

3. Alarm System
 Building may also be equipped with detection systems that will
transmit an alarm. Some detectors are designed to respond to smoke
and others to heat. In many places, detection systems are required in
public buildings, apartment house school and sometimes even to
private rooms.
 FIRE EXTINGUISHER
 It is a device within its chemical; dry, liquid/fluid and gases for extinguishing
and used to put out fires of limited size.
 It is also significant called as the first aid in suppressing fire.
 It is also designed to fight small or unusual incident that are easily put out of
water. Firefighters use them on certain unusual fire that hose line cannot put
out.

Types of Fire Extinguisher

1. Class A Fire Extinguisher

 Used in the fire light material, usually water based that provide a heat-
absorbing-cooling effect on the burning materials to extinguished the fire
2. Class B Fire Extinguisher
 Fires are put on by excluding air, by slowing down the release of flammable
vapors, or by interrupting the chain reaction of the combustion.
3. Class C Fire Extinguisher
 Must be electrically non-conductive. Carbon Dioxide (CO3) chemically
liquid and dry chemical can be used in electrical fires.
4. Class D. Fire Extinguisher
 A heat-absorbing extinguishing medium is needed for fires in combustible
metals. Extinguishing agent called dry powder

Kinds of Fire Extinguisher

1. Water Type
A. Pump Tank
 Use in small class A fire
 B. Stored Pressure Water Extinguisher
 Use for all types of small class A fire.
 Operated by means of expelling gas that propels the agent out container

2. Aqueous Film Forming Foam

 Suitable for the use on class
A and B fires.
 Most effective on static of
flammable liquids.
 It should not be applied
directly on the fuel

3. Halon Halogenated Vapor

A. Halon 1211
 Intended primarily for use on the
class B and class C fires.
 Ozone depleting agent.

B. Halon 1301
 The agent is discharge as a nearly
invisible gas that is highly
susceptible to be affected by wind.
 Ozone depleting agent.
4. Carbon Dioxide Extinguisher
 Effective in extinguishing class B
and C fires
 They have a limited reach
 They do not requires freeze
protection
 The gaseous discharge is usually
accompanied by little dry ice
carbon dioxide snow.
 This gases form shortly after the
discharge.

5. Dry Chemical Extinguisher

 Used for class A,B, and C fires
(sodium bicarbonate)
 Among the most common fire
extinguisher used today
 Potassium bicarbonate purple K
and mono ammonium phosphate

6. Dry Powder Extinguisher

 For combustible metal. Some powder agent
 May be applied portable extinguisher or
maybe applied by shovel or scoop.
 Available in hand held and wheeled type
(Magnesium, Sodium, Lithium, Potassium)

7. Wet Chemical Extinguisher

 Water based solution of
Potassium carbonate chemical

 For combustible cooking fuel.

FIRE HYDRANT

 Known as FIRE PLUG in the United States and JOHNNY PUMP in

Amsterdam (New York) because the firemen of the 1800’s were called
“JOHNNIES”.
 It is active fire protection measure and a source of water provide in the
most urban, sub urban and rural areas with water service or enable
firefighters to tap into the water supply to assist in extinguishing a fire.

Types of Fire Hydrant

1. Dry Barrel
 In a dry-barrel hydrant, the vertical portion of the hydrant (barrel) is empty
of water (dry).
 Typically used in cold weather climates to prevent water from freezing in
the barrel, this would damage the hydrant and hinder its operation in an
emergency.
 The main valve in a dry barrel hydrant sits at the hydrant’s base. The
water line is entirely subterranean, below the front line, and adjacent to
the main valve. When the valve opens, the barrel pressurizes and fills; fire
firefighters can then pump water through the hooked-up hose. When they
close the hydrant’s valve after they put a fire out, the barrel drains.
Because no water stays within the hydrant, there’s no risk of freezing.
 Hydrant manufactures o-design and produces variations on these models
and customizes them to meet the needs of each municipality or private
property.

Types of Dry Hydrants

a. Compression Type.
 In this type of hydrant, the main valve moves reciprocally on a
vertical axis against a seat located in the hydrant base. The
valve moves against the sear to close and away from the seat to
open. It is moved by a vertical stem; the stem moves up or down
when the operated nut is rotated. The valve may be located
below the seat and open against the pressure (or above the seat
and open with the pressure.
 b. Toggle Type.
 In this type of hydrant, the main valve moves reciprocally on a
horizontal axis against or away from a vertical seat located in
the base of the hydrant. The main valve is moved by means of
a vertical stem that has left hand and right hand threads.
Rotation of the stem causes the arms of the toggle mechanism
to move the main valve. The valve always moves away from the
seat to open and against the seat to close.
c. Slide-gate type.
 In this type of hydrant, the main valve consists of a gate that
moves vertically by means of a threaded stem. When the stem
is rotated, it causes the internally threaded gate to move. The
gate is forced against the valve seat by a wedging mechanism.
The valve seat is installed in the base of the hydrant.

2. Wet barrel

 A wet hydrant’s basic, study design gives it an operational lifespan of more

than 100 years. Its mechanical parts are above ground, with a main valve
to prevent any debris from entering the hydrant. Easy-to-access outlet
valves and nozzles work independently so that firefighters can add more
discharge lines without causing the hydrant to shutdown.
 All of these convenient above-ground aspects of wet barrel hydrants also
make them susceptible to frost. These are commonly fund in the hot,
southern regions of the United States.
 It operates similarly to dry barrel hydrants; however, the main valve is
located at the top of the barrel, and the barrel is constantly filled with
water. Manufacturer’s intend wet-barrel hydrants only be used in
climates where temperatures never drops below 32OF since they are
always (loaded) with water.

Classes of Hydrant
 This indicates the relative capacity of the hydrant to be determine by flow
measurements of individual hydrant taken at a period of ordinary demand.

Class AA “Blue” with very good flows

Class A “Green” with Good flows favorable for residential areas
Class B “Orange” marginally adequate
Class C “Red” inadequate

Densely populated areas tend to have high-flow, high-pressure hydrants.

Sub-urban or rural residential areas often don’t have pressure system
because of their pipes.
Body colors of hydrant must be bright and recognizable Municipal and
provincial system usually have yellow hydrants; however, some older
system are bright red. Various other body colors were used in the past,
including silver, white and lime. The international color for non-portable
water is violet, meaning the water source comes untreated form a lake or
pond. Non-working hydrants should be tagged “ Out of Service”
STANDPIPES

 The interior solution to firefighting. Have you ever noticed a fixed interior pipe
running vertically in the corner of a staircase? This is a standpipe. It allows one
person to extinguish part of a building fire after its occupants evacuate.
 Standpipes are dependable alternative to automatic, overhead sprinkler system.
The person operating a standpipe can turn off the hoses right away, preventing
the large-scale interior water damage common with sprinkler system. Standpipes
also provide a method of fire suppression to people unable to exit the building.

Types of Stand pipe systems

Wet standpipe
 Water is in the pipe at all times
 Required to support manual fighting
 Environmental temperature must be at least
40OF for installation
 Found in internal stair towers of mid-to high
rise building

Manual Dry
Standpipe
 Does not
have an attached water supply
 Fire fighters must connect water source
to the fire department connection
 Common in remote of free standing
structures such as parking garages where
environment is hard to monitor

Combined standpipe and sprinkle system

 Designed will try to use the

standpipe system as the sprinkler
supply line
 Common in old building with
existing standpipe design
provides outlet for sprinkler
system.

Semiautomatic standpipe
 Contains pressured air or
atmospheric Air in the pipe.
 Water enters pipe through
activation Of remote control device
 Environment temperature must
be At least 40OF.
 Found in industrial complexes or
public areas where features are
exposed to varying weather.
 FIRE TRUCKS
 A fire truck known as fire apparatus, fire engine, or fire appliance, is a specific
vehicle designed primarily for fire fighting. Many organizations employ fire
engines for various other uses including EMS, hazmat, auto extrication and
technical rescue. Its main roles include transporting firefighters, along with a
supply of water and full
compliments of equipment.

Types of fire trucks

1. Conventional Fire Appliances
 Also called conventional fire
apparatus, fire appliance, fire
tender, fire engine, water ladder,
pumper or pump-ladder has several
methods of pumping water onto the

fire. The most common method is to pass

water from a pump through hoses to the fire.

2. Airport Crash Tender

 Is a fire engine designed for use of
aerodromes in aircraft accidents. The
features include good acceleration, ability to
move on rough terrain outside the runway
and airport area, large water capacity, a foam
tank a high-capacity pump.

3. Turntable Ladder
 Is perhaps the best-known form of
special purpose aerial apparatus,
and is used to gain access to fires
occurring at height using a large
telescopic ladder, where
conventional ladders carried on
conventional appliances might not

reach

4. Command Support Unit

 The advancement of technology and

potential for very large scale

incidents has led to many fire
department utilizing and increasing
their used of mobile command
 support units. A fundamental advance of such an appliance is to accommodate
the many types of communication equipment needed at major incidents.
5. Tower Ladder
 `A turntable ladder that have a basket mounted at the top of the ladder as on a
hydraulic platform. These appliances can provide a secure place for firefighter to
operate equipment form.

6. Platform
 They have a number of function
which follow the same principles as
the turntable ladder, providing
high levels access and elevated
water pump positions. Some
hydraulic platforms are
articulated, which allows the arm
to bend in one or more places,
giving it the ability to go “up and
over an obstacle.

7. Heavy Rescue Vehicle

 Sometimes referred to as a rescue
company, rescue squad or technical
rescue, is a types of specialty firefighting
or EMS apparatus. Essentially giants
toolboxes on wheels, they are primarily
designed for technical rescue situations
such as vehicle extinction following
traffic collisions, confined space recue,

rope rescue or building collapses.

8. Hazardous Materials Apparatus

 Many fire departments covering
large metropolitan areas or those
containing many high risk hazards
keep specialist appliances for
dealing with hazardous Materials
(HAZMAT). These are of several
types, from those used to clean
spilled oil on streets and highways,
to full decontamination units,
designed to clean victims and rescuers of contaminants after an incident.
 9. Tanker Truck
 is a specialist fire appliances with
the primary purpose of transporting
large amounts of water to an emergency
to make it available for extinguishing
operations. These is especially useful in
rural areas where fire hydrants are not
available and natural water resources
are insufficient or difficult to exploit

10. Foam Tender

 Foam tenders carry large
amounts of foam to be used at
incidents where is ineffective or
cannot be used to tackle a
blaze. They may take the form
of a tanker, or a truck carrying
foam packets or barrels.
 FIREFIGHTING EQUIPMENT
1. Portable Pumps
 Usually used during firefighting operations and equipped with fire hose. This is
used if fighting fires in forests inaccessible by vehicle or areas with narrow roads.

2. Nozzle
 A piece of firefighting equipment used to direct or control a stream of water. The
characteristic of the stream of water or fire stream is determined mainly by the
nozzle.

3. Variable Nozzle
 This nozzle has a mechanism for changing 3 stages, stop, straight stream and
fog.

4. Fog Gun
 Used to fight fire inside a building or underground by straight spot water
application or fine fog application.

5. Straight Nozzle
 Used to fight fire and it is possible to speed up water stream rectified in the play
pipe.

6. Fog Nozzle
 It is possible to shoot fine water particles and change fog cones.

7. Revolving Nozzle
 The nozzle tip revolves to speed water stream and extinguishes fire in attic or
other confined places.

8. Monitor Nozzles/Deck Guns

 These nozzles are used against large fires that need high pressure master
streams. Located in the center of a pumper and can shoot water upon arrival at
the scene.

9. Expansion Nozzles
 Used by mixing foam solution with water at adequate rates to discharge foam.
Depending on the characteristic of fire, low, medium, and high expansion of
foams are used properly.

10. Line Proportioner

 Usually installed in a hose line to suck in and mix foam solution to discharge
foam. It is used to receive the supply of water from a pumper without a foam-
mixing device.

11. Fire Hose

 A type of flexible tube used by firefighters to carry water under pressure from the
source of supply to a point where it is discharged to extinguish fire.

12. Hose Hoist

 A device over which rope or hose may be pulled to raise or lower equipment when
firefighters are operating in buildings above the ground level.
 13. Hose Clamp
 Is a tool to shut off the water in hose lines when other control valves are not
applicable.

14. Hose Jacket

 Is used to seal small cuts or breaks, which may occur in fire hose, or to connect
mismatched or damaged coupling of the same size.

15. Hose Spanner Wrench

 Used to tighten or loosen hose couplings, but this versatile tool can also be used
to close utility cocks, pry and hammer.

PERSONAL PROTECTIVE EQUIPMENT IN STRUCTURAL FIREFIGHTING

1. Helmet
 Protects the head from impact and puncture as well as scalding water. Functions
of Helmets

a. Shed water

b. Protect the head from impact

c. Protect the head from heat and cold

d. Provide face-shield for secondary protection of the face and eyes when SCBA
is not required

`2. Eye Protection

 Provides protection against flying particles or splashes especially chemical

splashes.
Kinds of Eye Protection
a. Safety Glasses
b. Safety Goggles
c. Helmet Face-shields
d. SCBA Mask

3. Hearing Protection

 Limits noise-induced damage to the firefighter’s ears when loud noise situations
cannot be avoided.
Examples
a. Intercom/ear protection
b. Earmuffs/ear plugs

4. Protective Hoods
 Protects the portions of the firefighter’s face, ears and neck not covered by the
helmet or coat.

5. Protective Coats and Trousers

 Protect the trunks and limbs against cuts, abrasions and burn injuries and
provide limited protection from corrosive liquids.
a. Firefighter’s Protective Coat 3 components of a protective coat
1. Outer Shell
2. Moisture Barrier
3. Thermal Barrier
Types of Breathing Apparatus

1. Open-circuit
 Most commonly used in the fire service, uses compressed air.

2. Closed-circuit
 Uses compressed air or liquid oxygen, also known as Rebreathed Apparatus
because the user’s exhaled air stage within the system reuse.

SCBA Assemblies

• Backpack and harness assembly

• Air cylinder assembly

• Regulator assembly

• Face-piece assembly

2 methods of donning the SCBA

1. Over-the-head method

2. Coat method/Backpack method

Note: Donning means how to place your SCBA for use. Doffing, on the other
hand refers to the removal of the SCBA after use.

PASS (Personal Alert Safety Systems)

 Provides life-safety protection by emitting a loud shriek if the firefighter should

collapse or remain motionless for approximately 30 seconds. This is also called
Personal Alert Device (PAD).

National Fire Protection Association 1971 Standards on the requirement

for the protective ensembles

• Manufacturer’s name, identification, origination, lot number, serial number and ID

number

• Manufacturer’s address

• Country of manufacturer

• Month and year of manufacture

• Model name, number and design

• Size or size range

• Garments material
(coats/trousers/coveralls/hoods)

• Footwear size and width

• Cleaning precautions
 LADDER
Ladders are very important during an emergency situation. Particularly during fire, when every second
counts towards the success of failure of an operation. Firefighter must know the proper procedures for
carrying, raising, and climbing ladders so thoroughly that their actions will be governed by habit.

Type of ladder

1. Ground ladders

 Ground ladders vary in sizes from 3.1 to 17 meters (10-55 feet) long. It is being carried on a
pumper or fire trucks

Uses of Ground Ladders

a. For rescue
b. To stretch lines into a fire building
c. Provide ventilation by giving access to ports, scuttles, windows, roofs, or other
places that are hard to reach.
Forms of Ground Ladders

a. Straight ladder

 This is a type of a ladder that contains only one section. It ranges in length from 12 to 16 feet.
The most common size is the 14 – foot straight ladder.
b. Extension ladder

 This ladder is consists of abed and one or more fly ladders. The fly ladder slides through guides
on the upper end of the bed ladder.
 The 24,25 or 36 foot ladders are the types commonly found and carried on the pumpers or fire
trucks.
 An extension ladder that has a stay poles is called tormentors, tormentors support the beams
and give extra stability when raising or lowering the ladder. It ranges from 4.6 to 10 meters in
length (15 -33 feet)
c. Attic Ladder

 It provides means or reaching through an opening into attics, lofts, and other areas that are
somewhat difficult to reach without a special ladder. It can be folded or collapsed for a small
room or closet works. They are usually short because they are required to reach only a short
distance.
d. Wall ladder

 This type of ladder best used in rescue where a ladder in place is already falls short of the
endangered person. It allows the user to climb up or down, one storey as at time (ex. Scaling or
pompier, and fire escape)
Type of ladders according to its beam

 Solid beam ground ladder – made of heavy hard wood and/ or lightweight
metal alloys.
 Trussed beam ground ladder – a lightweight metal alloy easier to handle
and carry
2. Aerial ladder

 This type of ladder that is mounted on a turntable, capable of extending up to

30.5 meters (100 ft), may have three or four metal fly sections of ladder that can
be raised or lowered by hydraulically controlled cables.
Forms of Aerial Ladders

a. Hydraulic Aerial Ladders

b. Elevating Platform (Articulated boom)

Uses:

 Provide a source of heavy streams in combating fire;

 Best used for rescue operations;
 Used an elevator to lift hand lines, hand tools and short ladders up to its load limits;
 Used as a reconnaissance platform or a place from which to direct operations.

Hydraulic Aerial ladder

Articulating Boom Ladder

Ladder Terminology Bed ladder – the lowest section of an extension ladder

1. Fly ladder – the top section of an extension ladder.

2. Butt – the bottom end of a ladder
3. Heel – the part of the ladder that touches the ground
4. Halyard – a rope or cable used to raise the fly ladder
5. Pawl or Dog – the mechanism located at the end of the fly ladder that locks to the bed ladder.
6. Rung – the cross member of a ladder that is used for climbing
7. Top or tip – it is the top part of a ladder
8. Hooks – part of a ladder that is used t hook over a roof peak, sills, or walls where the heel does
not rest on a foundation (found only on roof – type ladders)
9. Stops – made or metal or wood blocks used to prevent the fly of an extension ladder from
extending out further from the ladder
10. Guides – light metal strips of an extension ladder that guides the fly ladder while it is being
raised or lowered.

`Type of ladder carries:

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 80
 ARSON INVESTIGATION
Arson

 A malicious, willful, intentional and felonious destruction of property by fire. The

study of the causes is subject to fire investigation.
Arson Investigation

 If the case (case involving fire) has motive of arson.

Fire Investigation

 First stage of investigation which involves fire.

An Arson investigation basically focuses on four areas;

1. Proof of incendiarism
 Occurs an examination of the fire scene by qualified cause and origin expert.
2. Proof of opportunity
 Focuses on the security of the building when the fire was discovered and who has
access.
3. Proof of motive
 Focuses on the insured’s financial condition profit or lost from operations and
cash flow.
4. Miscellaneous connecting evidence
 Includes an examination of the insured’s insurance history, operability of fire and
burglar detection system, how insured learned about the fire, etc.
Arson laws

 Involved the article 320 to 326 of (RPC) revised Penal Code

 Punishment more weight
 Revised and amended by P.D. 1613 and no. 1744
 Punished / Penalty reduced
Stages in the commission of crime

1. Attempted
 Presence of materials used but it didn’t produce flame
2. Frustrated
 With present of flame but no part of the wall of the building burned
3. Consummated
 If there is the present of fire damaged.
Person criminally liable

1. Principal – concerned, involved in crime

2. Accomplish – one of them involve in crime
3. Accessories – materials used in crime.
Principle of fire Investigation

All incidents should investigate to determine the origin and caused of fire.

1. Origin of fire – the exact location or area where the fire started.
2. Cause of fire – the reason how and why the fire occurred and started.
3. Fire scene – is the location or area in which fire occurred.
Basic Rule of conducting Investigation

1. Investigation, if possible be connected while the fires is still in progress

2. Preserve and secure the point of origin of the fire incident and possible cause on
the adjacent building and perimeter.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 81

 3. Do not clean and discharge the premises in anyway other than necessary for
suppressing and controlling fires.
Importance in conducting Investigation

1. The result of fire investigation on the accidental fire may serve as a basis or guide
for the improvement of the fire prevention practices.
2. The result of investigation on incendiary for arson and any related crimes.
3. The result of the fire investigation maybe used or applied for the improvements
of effective fire suppression and control operation.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 82

CORPUS DELICTI OF ARSON
Three (3) elements

1. That the burning occurred in a premise or property protected by law. To meet

this requirement, the existing provisions of art 320 -326-B of the revised penal;
code, as amended by P.D. no. 1613 and P.D. 1174 must be consulted to
determine whether the setting of the fire is sufficient enough to consummate the
crime of arson; or whether there must be an actual physical change in the
premises or property caused by burning.
2. That the fire burning was intentional; neither accident nor attribute to negligence
or natural cause, but the result of a criminal act;
3. That someone or burning was intentional; neither accident nor attribute to
negligence or natural cause, but the result of a criminal act.

Motives of Crime / Arson

1. Financial Gain
 Arson can result when a business or person gains financially
Example: by eliminating competition, through insurance fraud, or through
welfare fraud, following the destruction of home and possession.
a. Insurance Fraud
 Liquidating a large inventory of unsold obsolete merchandise
“selling” it to the insurance company by means of a set – It most
likely when the goods are seasonal or produced by an industries
that has suffered a severe downturn.
b. Elimination of competition
 A strategically timed fire can undoubtedly benefit a surging firm
when its competitor is forced out of business by arson. For example,
many companies on Christmas season are buying to ensure
adequate profits. If as the season is launched, its inventory is
received and then destroyed by a set of fire, the business may be
hard to put survive.
c. Moving and resettlement allowance
 People who do not live below poverty line know the hardships
endured by those who live on the edge. For middle class a home
fire is regarded as a calamity, the emotional impact of which is
partially offset by insurance coverage.

2. Intimidation
Arson have used to;
a. Instill fear regarding the safety of one’s person or family
b. Threaten economic loss, or
c. Effect desired change in the government business policy

A. Fear of safety
 The threat of arson has caused individuals to fear for their safety.
It may be used either to prevent or force them to do something.
Witnesses maybe threatened with testimony in an upcoming
criminal crime.

B. Threatened economic loss

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 83

  Arson has been disputes used to intimidate management in labor
disputes especially when the settlement of a strike unlikely.
Mobsters have sometimes extorted money from business concerns
by torching a company vehicle as a signal that more serious
repercussions will take place should compliance not be forth
coming.
C. Change of Policy
 Arson has been used to press for change in governmental policy. It
has also been used to induce action for the alleviation of other
problems; for example, banks believed to be “redlining” a
community, not proving loans for housing in the area, have received
arson threats. In these case informants can be helpful indicating
suspects to place under surveillance

3. Emotional Reasons
 In such cases involving emotional reasons, the aggressive individual
and can provide the investigator with the same of the likely
penetrator.
A. Jealousy
 Can cause a jilted sexual partner to result arson by setting the
property of the former lover or new lover on fire. It is uncommon
for the unrequited lovers to throw a Molotov cocktail against the
front door of the persons who has rejected him or her. Although
similar jealousy, envy is less useful in suggesting a possible
suspect.
B. Split
 Domestic quarrels and feuds between neighbors are often marked
by arson. Some property of value to the other party in conflict is
burned in rural areas a rice field or nipa hut maybe targeted; in
cities a vehicle.
C. Revenge
 A relationship between employees also can become so embattled as
to cause the firm’s business or equipment’s to be set on fire. Family
feud and gang warfare provide excuses for revenge fires as well.
D. Hatred
 In another strong emotion that sometimes is relieved through
arson. The target maybe the commercial property, automobile, or
residence of the intended victim.

4. Concealment of another crime

 Sometimes arson serves to conceal a homicide, account for
inventory shortage, destroy incriminating records, or distract police
from another felony being committed simultaneously n the same
area.
 When the investigator realizes that arson was put to such used,
should be given whosoever may have had a motive to commit the
offense.
A. Homicide
 Attempts have been made to conceal criminal homicide by making
and then dies, such attempts are doomed if a proper autopsy is
conducted.
B. Robbery

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 84

  Sound business practice requires that an inventory count be taken
regularly to ferret out theft. An employee who is periodically
stealing from a firm can attempt to conceal a shortage through a an
apparent destruction by fire.
C. Fraud, forgery and embezzlement
 These crimes generally involve document, come of which are needed
to prove the corpus delicti. If such document are unavailable
because they were destroyed in a fire, crucial evidence will be
missing and the prosecution mad more difficult.
D. Other crimes
5. Pyromania
 An irresistible or compulsion to start a fire or something on fire.
Even through excitement or sensual gratification makes the motive
clear, this kind of arson may be considered motiveless from an
investigative point of view. In an event, because all pyromaniacs
have the same inner drive, the term pyromaniac is too general to be
useful in identifying the offender.
6. Recognition as a hero
 Some arsonist will set fire in order to “discover” it and then “save”
the inhabitants or contents. These so called heroes tend to fall into
certain, not necessarily exclusive, classes; voluntary fire fighters,
baby sitters, volunteers, librarians, night watchman/ true heroes
certainly exist – people who risk their own lives to save others, but
when an individual manage to make a second heroic recue not too
long after the first, it is feasible that they are an arsonist
questioning the suspect, then homing in on the details of the
“discovery/rescue” during re-questioning, will expose discrepancies
and ultimately produce an admission or confession.

7. Vandalism
 Rundown or vacant building in deteriorating neighborhoods can
become the target of adolescent gangs looking to vent anger or
simply to relieve motomy. A set of fire is good for a certain amount
of excitement sometimes gang members. “graduate” to setting fires
for landlords or rent controlled properties; having driven the
tenants out, the owners realize these situations, would facilitate the
investigation if a suspect gang member can be turned into an
informant.
Common Signs of Arson
 A large amount of damage
 No "V" burn pattern present, unusual burn patterns and high heat stress
 Lack of accidental causes
 Evidence of forced entry
 Absence of valuable items
 The same person shows up at unconnected fires
 Low burning point with unidentifiable point of origin
 Multiple points of origin
 Presence of accelerants
 Firefighters observe fire not acting normally
 Color of the smoke
 Damaged sprinkler systems
 Environmental modifications (cloth trails, propped windows)
 Suspicious behavior of property owner

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 85

EVIDENCE
 Rules of evidence regulate the admissibility proof at a trial. The purpose of the
rules of evidence is to ensure that the proof offered is reliable. A goal of every fire
investigation is to produce reliable documents, samples, statements, information
and data conclusions.

Evidence of incendiary of fires.

 Throughout this portion, many kinds of physical evidence that may indicate
incendiary nature of fire have been discussed. The following recaptures them.

1. Suspicious behavior of people observed at the fire scene, sign of forced entry
unrelated to firefighting operations, precut holes in floor, walls or roof, sabotage
of fire detection or water delivery system, .example hydrants, sprinkles, etc and
multiple points of origin.
2. Abnormalities example inconsistencies with construction materials and contents,
with regard to rate of speed, direction of spread example unusual locations of
fire, burn patterns, extent of spread and intensity of fire example temperature,
as indicated by smoke and flame color, depth of char burn time , spalling.

Types of evidence
1. Demonstrative evidence
 This type of evidence that consist of tangible items as distinguished from
testimony of witnesses about the items. It is evidence from which one can
derive a relevant first hand impression by seeing touching, smelling, or
hearing the evidence.
a. Photographs/illustrative forms of evidence
 Among the most frequently utilized types of illustrative demonstrative
evidence are maps, sketches, diagrams, and models. They generally
admissible on the basis of testimony that they are substantially accurate
representations of what the witness is endeavoring to describe.
b. Samples
 Chain of custody is especially important regarding sample. To ensure
admissibility of a sample unbroken chain of possession should established
2. Documentary evidence
 Is any evidence in written form it is generally admissible if the documents
are maintained in the normal course of business.
3. Testimonial evidence
 In that given by a competent live witness speaking under oath or
affirmation. Investigators are frequently called on to give testimonial
evidence regarding the nature, scope, conduct, and results of their
investigation.
Determining the Point of Origin

 By observing the burn patterns and tracking back the order in which they formed,
the investigator gradually migrates to the area of the most severe damage. This
usually the area where the fire burned the longer at or near its point of origin
because enough oxygen is available there during the early stages. Therefore, the
room with the greatest damage is most apt to the room of origin. Locating this
room is very significant because it contains the area of the origin as well as clues
to its causes.
 Many factors and criteria are commonly used to isolate the point of origin. If the
investigator finds several distinct unconnected point of origin, each must be
carefully examined. The first scene photographs, sketches, and notes should
clearly show the multiple point of origin were not the result of normal fire travel,
flashover, or burning material having been moved during suppression, overhaul,

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 86

 or savage operations. Fall down fires – also known as drop down fires, burning
materials failing to the floor, or explosion can also give the appearance of multiple
point of origin.
 The discovery of multiple points of origin is prima facie evidence that the fire was
not incendiary origin, since such a condition is highly improbable and virtually
impossible under normal conditions. After completing the preliminary fire scene
evacuation, indicating the evacuated areas of lesser damage back to the greatest
area of structural damage in tracking the fire to its place of beginning or point of
origin.

Burns Distinctive Patterns

 As the flame superheated gasses upward through a structure, they leave

behind distinctive pattering follow;

1. Pour Patterns
 The kind of burn pattern form pouring an accelerant onto the
floor of a room is particularly important. A pour pattern is clear,
demonstrative evidence of the use of an accelerant or any volatile
materials.
2. Alligatoring
 Anyone who has observed the partially burned reside of a camp
fire is familiar with how the busters on the logs resembles the
skin of an alligator. The size of alligatoring or checking is not
useful to the investigator, for it is dependent on the type of wood
and its cut rather than on exposure t the fire. The single
exception is the flat baked appearance by low intensity heating
over a long time.

3. “V” Pattern
 Fire, if unobstructed will shoot upward and fan out, often
registering as a “V” or a cone pattern left after the fire is put out.
When the “V” is distinct, the bottom of the cone sometimes
points to where the fire started, or to where source may be
bound at base of a “V” pattern,

4. Charring
 The charring of wood inevitably is observed in structural fires
and can be an indicator of fire travel and point of origin. Many
arson investigators believe that the deeper the charring, the
longer the fire burned at the spot. Because the longest burning
time must be at the point of origin, observing the depth of char
at various flares can help to trace the fire back to that point.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 87

RECKLESS NEGLIGENCE AND IMPRUDENCE
Negligence
 Defined as the failure to observe for the protection of the interest of another
person that degree of care, precaution and vigilance which the
circumstances justly demand, whereby such other person suffers injury.
Elements of simple negligence are;

1. That there is lack of precaution on the part of the offender and;

2. That the damage impending to be caused is not immediate or the danger is not
clearly manifest.

Arson through reckless negligence (lack of foresight)

 One who with the sole motive of destroying his own property starts therein
a fire which extending to the house of the neighbors, consumed both
building, nor guilty of crime arson but may be charge of reckless
negligence, as the failure, to observe for the protection of the interest of
another person that degree of care, precaution, and vigilance which the
circumstances justly demand, whereby such other person suffers injury.
Reckless imprudence

 Consist of voluntary doing or failing to do, without malice, an act from

which material damage result by reason of an inexcusable of precaution
on the part of the person performing or failing to perform such act.
Elements of imprudence are;

1. That the offender does or fails to do an act.

2. That the doing or the failure to do the act is voluntary;

3. That it be without malice

4. That material damage result from the imprudence ; and

5. That there is inexcusable lack or precaution on the part of the offender taking.

Arson through Reckless imprudence (lack of skill)

Reckless – lacking of caution

Imprudent – lacking of discretion
Imprudence – an imprudent Act (indicate deficiencies of action)

If a person takes the necessary precaution to avoid injury of persons or damage to

property usually involve “lack of skill”

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 88

Structural Fires’ Investigation

The main reason for conducting a post fire investigation of structural fie is to
determine the fire’s origin and cause. The factual determination of origin and cause is
the principal area of expertise that separates a fire or arson investigator from other
investigative specialist. The point of origin of fire is the location where the fire started –
the place of beginning. The term area of origin is sometimes used when fire originates
over a large tract of space, or when the exact point of origin cannot be determine.
Multiple point of origin are said to exist when there are more than one place of
beginning, or when several separated the fires burn in the same structure at the same
time. The cause of a fire usually can be determined from a detailed inspection of the
charred debris, combustibles, devices and area of origin. Theoretically, the cause of fire
can be categorized into one of four classifications i.e. act of God, unintentional cause
unknown and intentional.

Examining the Fire Scene Physically

“6 (SIX) STEPS APPROACH IN ANALIZING THE ORIGIN AND CAUSE OF FIRE ARE AS
FOLLOWS:
1. Recognizing the Problem
 The first step of recognizing the problem after the fire has occurred, is to
determine origin, cause, and responsibility. Investigators must recognize
that their determination may lead to criminal and civil litigation which can
affect many lives.
2. Defining the Problem
 To determine the problem, the investigator must conduct a thorough
investigation with all the available information collected from people,
physical evidence, and records.
3. Collecting Data
 I includes documentation of the fire scene with photographs, reports, and
collection of physical evidence. It also includes witness accounts which
may require additional statement, taking notes, and diagram.
4. Analyzing Data
 The inductive reasoning- here the investigator’s knowledge, training and
experience is put to the test in his analysis of the fire patterns, structural
damage, fuel source, ignition source, and any other factor which may affect
the correct determination of the origin and ultimately the cause of fire.
5. Developing Hypothesis
 It is the stage at which investigator may express his her opinion about the
origin, cause and responsibility of the fire incident. This opinion is based
on the facts and data collected by the investigator.
6. Proving the Hypothesis
 The investigator’s hypothesis-deductive reasoning is put to the test, based
on the facts and scientific data that have been developed. It is this step
wherein the investigator is making conclusions.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 89

Eliminating Accidental Causes
The elimination of all possible accidental causes of fire is one of the fire investigator’s
most difficult tasks. Unless relevant accidental causes can be eliminated, the fire must
be declared accidental.
1. Electrical Causes
 An investigator must be able to determine conclusively whether or not a
fire was caused by electricity. To do this, there is a need of the basic
understanding of electricity and a working knowledge of the basic electrical
system. It is a must to differentiate between electrical damage caused
internally, within the system, and externally, by flame.

2. Lighting
 Lighting, although comparatively rare, has a started many accidental fires.
The physical signs of lighting strike will be obvious to the trained investor,
i.e. , holes in concrete, shattered wooden beams, and scorch marks that
follow the course of wiring. A lightning strike is usually verifiable through
interviews and weather records.

3. Gas Fires
 Natural gas, liquid petroleum gases (LPG), and other flammable vapors
have been involved in numerous fires and explosions. Experience
indicates that most gas or vapor initiated fires are accidental. Negligence,
human error, simple ignorance, and mechanical defect are leading
contributing factors.

4. Fuel Oil Fires

 As a general rule the investigator should examine the building’s heating
equipment. This should be done even where the fire does not involve the
heating system. In every case, the investigator should be able to describe
the steps taken in eliminating the heating system as cause of the fire.

5. Operations of System
 Fuel delivery is generally made by specially equipped tank truck. Oil is
pumped from the truck’s tank through a flexible hose into the building
storage tank. The fuel is pumped under pressure at high speed which,
under certain conditions, can cause a build-up of static electricity.
Although extremely rare, this static electricity can ignite oil vapor causing
an explosion.

6. Auxiliary Heating Equipment

 Approximately 20% of structural fires in foreign countries are the direct
result of the improper installation, operation, or maintenance of auxiliary
heating equipment. The use of solid heating appliances, direct vent.
Propane heaters, kerosene heaters, electric space heaters, and the like is
an effort to save on home heating cost. Their presence at the fire scene
warrants a thorough investigation.

7. Cooking Related Fires

 Most cooking fires start as cooking accidents and are preventable.
Thoughtlessness and panic are two human characteristic that are chiefly
at fault. People leave pots cooking on the stove and roast baking in the
oven. When a minor fire starts, it causes panic in an attempt to extinguish
it. For example, so many people try to carry a flaming pot to some place
of the premises.

8. Exposed or Unprotected Flames and Sparks

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 90

  Exposed or unprotected flames and sparks may cause fire, most of which
are accidental. However, after close scrutiny, some are guilty of gross
neglect or reckless conduct. Common sources of exposed flames and
sparks includes candles, chimney, exhaust, welding equipment, static
electricity, electric motors and equipment, and open burnings.

9. Children and Pets

 Children, household pets, and farm animals may recklessly knock over
candles, kerosene heaters, or other auxiliary heating units, accidentally
starting a fire. Fires cause by children playing with matches are an all-
too-common occurrence.

10. Clandestine Laboratories

 A clandestine laboratory can be defines as a place where controlled
substances are illegally prepared or processed. Many of the precursors
used in the preparation of illegal drugs can be categorized as dangerous
flammable materials. In addition, the gaseous by products resulting from
cooking, baking, or mixing phases in the drug-making process result in
the creation of a critical atmosphere. A careless act can easily cause a
disastrous and fatal explosion.

11. Improper Storage of Combustibles

 All too often, warnings printed and packages or simple common sense
considerations are ignored when storing and handling combustible or
flammable materials. Investigation of large numbers of unknown or
suspect chemicals may require the involvement of outside experts.

12. Smoking
 The purpose of comments on smoking and smoking-related materials as
an ignition source was to bring to the fire investigator’s attention its
overuse as a cause of fire. Although statistics confirmed its overuse,
nevertheless it is still one of the leading causes of accidental fire death and
serious injury.

13. Construction, Renovation and Demolition

 Many construction or demolition fire involve the use of electric or gas
welding or cutting torches without the minimum safety standards. Molten
metals may come in contact with combustibles, starting a fire. Propane
heater which is either used to heat a work place or to dry cement work
quickly during winter months, may malfunction and result in a flash fire
or explosion.

14. Direct Sunlight

 Under unique conditions, the sun’s ray may strike a curved section of auto
or window glass in such a way that the refracted or distorted rays passed
though the section of glass are slightly more concentrated than they might
be ordinarily. This type of condition could not occur with standard flat or
sheet glass. An exceptional combination of factors is required before any
type of ignition is possible.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 91

Vehicular Fires’ Investigation
People burn their motor vehicles for the same reasons that they burn their homes,
the primary motive seems to be financial consideration. Motor vehicles values are
incentive enough to warrant investigation. In this, it requires a two part approach. The
first part involves a detailed post-fire automobile salvage examination to determine the
origin and cause of the fire. The second, which hinges on the determination made
during the first, involves the interviewing or interrogation of the vehicle’s owner.
If the case or fire is determined to be incendiary and the investigators has reason
to suspect the owner, then the purpose of the follow-up interview or interrogation is to
elicit statements that implicate the vehicle owner. When it comes to incendiary fire
there are few things that are not easily disputable. There are usually definite signs, and
all depends on the circumstances. A thorough investigation including statements and
pre and post fire conditions will best back-up the final conclusion.

Four Categories of Fire

1. NATURAL
 A naturally caused fire is one that has been caused without direct human
intervention. A natural cause for a vehicle fire does not seem very
plausible. It must be though that such possibilities exist in natural
disasters.

2. ACCIDENTAL
 These will include, but will not be limited to, misuse of the vehicle. Such
as, poor maintenance, manufacturing failure or defects, service repair
shop failures or improper procedures, or age, wear and tear of the motor
vehicle.

3. INCENDIARY
 There are several definitions, such as one deliberately set on fire under
circumstances when the person who is setting the fire realizes that the fire
should not be set. Use of the term “ arson” is made after the investigator
has completed the investigation.

4. UNDETERMINED
 An “undetermined” fire cause is used when the cause of the fire cannot be
proven, whether the fire is still under investigation or awaiting further
information. This term allows an investigation open in the event of new
pertinent information.

Investigating Vehicular Fires

In order to have a fire, four items must be present. This known as the chemistry of
combustion of the fire tetrahedron. The fuel, the oxidizing agent, heat and self-sustained
chemical reaction. These four components have been classically symbolized by a four-
side solid geometric form called a tetrahedron. Four can be prevented or suppressed by
controlling or removing one or more of the sides of tetrahedron.
When investigating a motor vehicle fire, three of the four sides of the fire tetrahedron
are present frequently, example heat, fuel and oxidizing agent. The fire investigator
must establish the fourth side- what brings them together to cause a fire. The heat can
be supplied by anything from the engine to exhaust system, friction, or a regularly
occurring arc or spark within the electrical system.
Gasoline is only one of the many agents in the motor vehicle that is potent and
substantial fuel. The oxidizing agent can be considered to be the air that passes over
and through the vehicle. The fourth side of the fire tetrahedron would be the self-

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 92

sustained chain reaction or uninhibited chain reaction. This would be the distortion,
breakage, deterioration, intentionally caused or other failure in a component or system
which would allow the previous three sides of the fire tetrahedron to come into contact
with each other.
When a heat source is believed to have been the initiating factor, there is a need to
determine if the heat source is of an adequate temperature to have ignited the fuel
source. A motor vehicle that has not been operating for a long time will not have enough
heat from the engine or exhaust. This is the same condition in a motor vehicle’s
electrical system that is still energized.
The investigator must consider the amount of air in comparison to the fuel. This is
known as the fuel-to-air ration where flammable limits must be met. A motor vehicle
traveling eighty kilometers per hour with gasoline escaping from the fuel system may
not ignite until it begins to slow down or stops, even though fuel, heat and oxidizer are
all present.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 93

Fatal Fires’ Investigation
The impact of unchecked incendiaries on society is most often delineated in economic
terms. Arson is described as one of the predisposing cause of the economic blight so
evident in the country. Its costs are often measured in terms of monetary value of
shrinking tax revenues, high cost of insurance premium and the increased burden of
welfare benefits.
Although accurate, such an estimate is blatantly deficient in describing the grief and
suffering of the burn victim, of the loss of community, family, and friends. More
importantly, so many people die and suffer injuries or are frighteningly disfigured. Every
arsonist regardless of his motive is a potential mass murderer.

Six – Phase Investigative Approach

“Aid to the investigator in a Fatal Fire Case”

1. Fire Incident
 The first phase in the process deals with the duties and responsibilities of
the fire-fighting units to respond to a fire where a person dies or is
seriously injured and likely to die. It begins at the time the fire is
discovered and ends with the arrival of the fire investigator. The ultimate
responsibility for this phase rests with the officer in command of the fire
scene.

2. Body Examination
 The second phase of the investigation involves the visual inspection and
physical examination of any human body discovered in phase- one. In this
instance, the medico-legal officer is responsible for ensuring that both an
investigation at the scene and subsequently autopsy on the body of the
victim are conducted.

3. Cause and Origin

 In this phase of the inquiry, two separate investigative operations take
place simultaneously. The fire investigator, who is responsible for
determining the fire’s origin and cause, begins the physical examination
of the structure. The police investigator, who is responsible for the death
investigation, begins an investigative canvass.

4. Investigative Procedure
 In phase-four, all the information amassed from the investigative steps
already completed is assembled and analyzed by the medico-legal
examiner together with the results of the autopsy examination. The
product of this synthesis serves as a blueprint determining how the follow-
up investigation is to be conducted.
5. Follow-up Investigation
 In situations where death is an obvious homicide, the investigation should
be well documented by the time supporting data are received from medico-
legal officer. Here are motive for the homicide becomes a key issue in
identifying the suspect. The fire, is of incendiary origin, was most probably
set either to prevent or impede the identification of the victim, to conceal
wounds and injuries, or as in certain sex crimes, to purge or purify the
site where, to the psychopathic mind, something evil was committed.

6. Arrest and Trial

 As the case approaches the stage where sufficient probable cause exist to
warrant the arrest of one or more suspects, the investigator, working
closely with the prosecutor, most carefully considers the options governing
the method of arrest. This is not a question of tactics, although all arrests

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 94

 do involve some tactical considerations, the method of arrest refers to the
authority or agency authorizing or ordering the arrest. The person making
the arrest has only two options. Such as, arrest based on probable cause,
and arrest with warrant.

Identifying the Victim

Determining the identity of a fatality discovered at the fire scene can be difficult,
involving the efforts of several specialists. The investigator must: therefore, collect all
items that might directly or indirectly facilitate the proper identification of the victim.
Example, remains of the victim’s clothing or object found on or near the body. Some
obvious question should also be answered. Example, who was most likely to have within
the fire structure when the fire started; who was seen entering the structure during the
fire; and who among these people, is missing or unaccounted for?
If these preliminary avenues of investigation seen to make the identity of the
victim clear, the field investigator should make every effort to identify and record the
names, addresses, and phone numbers of the relatives and friends of the deceased This
information should be supplied to the medico-legal officer. Many victims are identified
by their relatives and friends during viewing of the body conducted at the morgue. Such
visual identification is referred to as gross identification. The feasibility of such a
viewing is obviously determined by the conditions of the body.
The investigator should know that in most fires, the body is almost never totally
consumed and is usually recognizable as human even the sex, ethnic origins, and so on
are indiscernible due to massive charring. This is because it is extremely difficult to
maintain the open burning of a human body. Even when a body is cremated-burned
for approximately two-hours 2000OF-teeth and dental work are rarely destroyed.
Beyond gross identification, there are several other approaches to victim
identification available. One is by means of fingerprint comparison. Palm and sole prints
should also be made at the time fingerprints are taken. These are all forwarded to the
National Bureau of Investigation (NBI) for comparisons with prints already on file. The
values of finger, palm and sole prints for identification purposes is limited, of course, by
the condition of those areas to be printed. If a complete set of print cannot be taken,
the incomplete set and tentative identification should be forwarded to help in the
comparison.
Another method of positive identification is through the use of dental records. As
mentioned earlier, teeth and dental work are usually found intact. Furthermore, the
shrinking of the victim’s facial skin and swelling of the tongue tend to protect not only
the teeth, but also the inner mouth. This means that forensic odontologist can identify
three or four times as many points of identification as can a fingerprint technician.
These include the shape of fillings, sinus cavities, nerve paths, signs of canal work, and
so on.
At autopsy, the odontologist takes dental X-rays and then removes the upper and
lower jaws for charting purposes. These charts are then compared with earlier X-rays
and charts based on any tentative identification. If no tentative identification is
available, the odontologist can at least greatly narrow down the possibilities of
identifying the style of dentistry. Example, type of materials used I fillings. This may
help identify the socio-economic class of the victim.
A fourth method of identification is based on information discovered during the
medical and physical examination and autopsy. These factors include tattoos and scars,
evidence of prior surgical procedures or bone fractures, unique or unusual deformity,
sex, ethnic origin, build features, and approximately age, and personal papers, jewelry,
clothing, etc.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 95

Time and Duration of Death
One of the most important question in any fatal fire investigation is the time of
death. Was the victim alive or dead before the fire? This piece of information, couple
with the cause of the fire, will set the tone of the entire investigative process that is to
follow. Hereunder is the body decomposition time in fire.
BODY DECOMPOSITION TIME IN FIRE

10 MINS. – Arms Charred

15 MINS. – Legs Charred
680OC (1256OF) FOR: 15 MINS. – Face, Arm Bones
Charred
20 MINS. – Ribs & Skull
Showing
25 MINS. – Skin Bones Showing
35 MINS. – All Leg Bones
Showing

The police, fire, and medico legal examiner, working as a team, may be able to
make certain, tentative determination regarding the status of the victim during the fire,
based on an analysis of ante or post mortem burns and injuries. Any determination
made at the scene is obviously tentative. The precise analysis of ante and post mortem
injuries can also be determined and interpreted during autopsy examination.
The investigator may have to wait several days to receive the final disposition of
an autopsy examination. This is a crucial factor. It is therefore, incumbent upon the
investigator to pursue whatever investigative data are available on the basis of this
initial, on-site investigation.
In many cases, the medico-legal examiner, with the help of the police and fire
investigators, can develop a defensible and medically accurate conclusion at the scene.
There are several factors that when analyzed, can provide the empirical data upon which
to base such a conclusion. These factors examined separately can be misleading but
when compared and connected chronologically, they can provide a reasonably clear
picture of what happened.
The first thing that the investigator should note during the physical examination
is whether the victim is face up of face down. Except for those found in bed, most
victims are found face down. A person who succumbs while staggering or crawling
through a smoke-filled room can usually be expected to fall forward and thus, be found
face down.
However, it is reasonable to expect to find a person sleeping face up in bed. The
fact that the body is found face up elsewhere is not in and of itself necessarily
suspicious, but it does warrant additional attention and inquiry. If the victim was alive
during the fire, he or she may have inhaled smoke and soot. If so, the body should show
signs of soot and smoke particles- carbonaceous material, in and around the mouth
and nose, indicating that breathing continued during fire.
Certain physical changes occur after death or when varying degrees of heat and
flame are applied to human body. In most cases, these are natural phenomenon and
should not be misinterpreted by an investigator as indicative of foul play example post-
mortem lividity, pugilistic attitude, skull fracture, blistering or splitting of skin.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 96

Special Evidence at Fire Scene
For some time now, bloodstains evidence has been instrumental in determining
many different variables at crimes scene untouched by fire. Bloodstain evidence can be
observed into very distinctive categories:
1. INTERNAL BLOODSTAINS
 Internal bloodstains are identified as bloodstains found inside the body.
Livor mortis or lividity is a post mortem discoloration found in the
dependent portion of the body . Often referred to as “ staining of the skin”
this artifact is a product of the collection of blood in the superficial vessels
of the skin . Lividity is acted on by gravitation pull and becomes an
evidence thirty-minutes to two-hours following death.
 When blood inside the body is exposed to high temperature, certain
changes occur. Hemolysis is the separation of hemoglobin from the red
blood cells. Hemolysis should be considered when interpreting lividity
patterns in fire fatalities. This process occurs when the body is exposed
to a temperature of 120OF (170OC) and may affect the lividity pattern
depending upon how soon after death the body is expose to heat.

2. EXTERNAL BLOODSTAINS
 Blood evidence found outside of the human body is referred to as “external
bloodstains”. This evidence is acted upon by the laws of physics and
maintains specific properties, example, blood has specific gravity – blood
is affected by gravity and reacts accordingly to gravitational pull: blood is
viscous fluid- viscosity is a physical property of a substance that depends
on the friction of its component molecules as they slide by one another;
and blood has surface tension – a single droplet of blood has a outer layer
which is referred to as “ surface tension”
 Heat affects viscosity. When temperature rises, the viscosity of fluid begins
to break down. The heat emitted by a flame will begin to degrade the
bloodstains, and eventually the bloodstain itself will become fuel for the
fire. Similar with other fuel sources at a fire scene, the physical
composition of bloodstains is changed when a heat source is applied over
time. The process of physical change is structure at a fire scene is called
pyrolysis.

3. WET AND DRY BLOODSTAINS

 In original experimentation observing dry and wet bloodstains exposed to
a heat source, the resulting physical appearance were remarkable. Those
stains that were fully dried prior to the introduction of a heat source
maintained their original shape and configuration better than the wet
stains. Because the dried stains had already undergone a gradual
dehydration process, the shaped and configuration of the stains are a
permanent marker on the target surface.
 In the presence of heat, cohesive force of wet blood turns into a membrane
similar to the design of a water balloon. When blood is exposed to heat,
the outer surface is the first segment of the bloodstains to begin to
dehydrate. That presence of heat, over time causes the surface tension-
outer skin, to become less fluid and eventually better stimulate the water
balloon with its very resilient outer layer. The internal portion of the
bloodstains will eventually reach a point where it also begins to evaporate.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 97

Significant Points to Consider in Aid to Interpretation of
Evidence
1. Human Body
When the body is exposed to heat and flame, it is affected in varying degrees of
thickness. The standard measure of these burns are first, second, third and fourth
degree, or superficial, partial, or full thickness, respectively. In first degree or
superficial burns, the skin appears red and is warm to touch. Second degree or
partial thickness burns appear red, and depending on the severity, there may or may
not be blisters, and the burned area will heal without scarring. Third degree or full
thickness burns appear dry and light colored ad blisters are not normally seen.
Fourth degree burns involve long exposure to heat source which results in the partial
cremation of the exposed portion of the body and extend into layers below the skin.
Long splits in the skin are often seen when examining burned bodies and may be
attributed to thermal damage rather than ante mortem trauma. In scenes where
fires had been introduced, the composition of hair will begin to change. White hair
begins to turn yellow at 280OF (140OC), while pigmented hair does not change color.
Charring and eventual destruction of hair has been noted to occur at temperature
around 500OF (260OC).
2. Smoke and Sludge
In a fire environment, smoke is a fuel the fire will eventually consume.
Inside plumes generate a dense layer of smoke that will ultimately fill closed space
from top to bottom. The hotter the upper layer of gas, from the greater degradation
of other materials in the room. Smoke represents the material that did not burn
completely the first time. The environment is full of char, solid matter in very small
particulate form, as well as liquids in an aerosol form. This by-product of the fire is
produced by the pyrolysis of the first fuel partially consumed by the fire. When
aerosolized liquid that are found in smoke strike a glass surface, the smoke re-
condenses and a brown sludge is created.
Sludge, like smoke, represents fuel for later stages of the fire’s development if
there is enough thermal momentum to ignite it. Smoke and sludge collect on internal
surfaces I structure fires. These deposits cover and sometimes preserve bloodstain
evidence on walls and ceilings by establishing a protective layer covering the
bloodstain. Conversely, if the thermal momentum of the fire reaches its maximum,
the protective layer of soot can become fuel for the later stage of the fire and along
with the soot the bloodstain can consumed by flames. This phenomenon was
observed when blood was deposited on plate glass window in a controlled structure
burn. The blood was coated with soot and sealed to the glass in the initial stages of
the fire. As the fire reached its later stages, the soot was wiped clean from the place
glass as were the bloodstains, resulting in a clean sheet of glass.
3. Target Surfaces
Different substrates will conduct heat energy in different ways. Sheetrock
surfaces will absorb with little conducting ability, while in lath and plaster surfaces
the plaster is cooked and the lath superheats until it eventually ignites. When
looking at bloodstains on specific surfaces, it is important to keep the exact material
in mind. Bloodstains on metal surfaces exposed to high temperature are literally
baked into the surface. Because of their relative size, bloodstains found on painted,
textured surfaces and exposed to heat and flame tend to dry and flake off. Rough
and more porous surfaces, like raw lumber and heavy-textured wall paper, allow the
bloodstain to penetrate deeper and survive the fire environment longer, if the
substrate is not charred.
Paramount to examining bloodstains evidence in fire scenes is determining the
extent of damage to the evidence which is dependent upon the following conditions,
example, the applied temperature, the ability to the target surface medium to

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 98

 conduct away of excessive heat, and the length of time the stains is exposed to the
applied temperature.

Reporting Arson Investigation

Arson Investigation

 Is part of the more complex science of fire investigation, the job of an arson
investigator is to figure out whether or not a fire has been intentionally set. Some
arson investigators are employed as police officers of firefighters.
Hereunder are some points to be considered in reporting arson investigation.

1. Preliminary Report
 It is not necessary t go into details in preparing a preliminary report. This report
should be submitted to the superior as soon as possible listing the following:
1. Owner, his or her name and present address
2. Occupant, their names and present addresses
3. Date, hours of fire
4. Location of fire, street address, city or municipality, province
5. Person requesting investigation and date request
6. Brief description of the building is to construction and occupancy
7. Available insurance data
8. Investigators conclusion as to cause of the fire. It’s accidental? Is it suspicious
or incendiary.
9. Reason for continuing the investigation
10. Date of preliminary investigation
11. Date of report

2. Final Report
 This report contains a word picture of all information developed during the
investigation. All materials included should be concise, accurate and complete,
as it becomes a permanent record and may be used by persecutors and attorneys
in the preparation of case for trial.

1. Case number
2. Date of record
3. Name, title of person requesting investigation and date of request
4. Subject owner or occupant and present address.
5. Date and hour if fire alarm
6. Weather condition, wind direction, speed, etc.
7. Complete and detailed description of building height, construction, type of
roof, wiring, plumbing, heating device, air conditioning , fuel.
8. Location of loss
9. Occupants
10. Fire history
11. Insurance
12. Evidence
13. Photographs
14. Fingerprints
15. Suspects
16. Motive
17. Modus operandi
18. Property

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 99

 19. Witnesses
20. Financial reports
21. Court of action
22. Assisting officer
23. Subsequent officer

A Guide for Investigating Fire and Arson

1. ARRIVING AT THE SCENE

a. Observe the fire and scene conditions.

 First responders at a fire scene must observe conditions and activities and
provide investigators with an accurate and complete description.

b. Exercise scene safety.

 Safety overrides all other concerns. First responders must make sure that
victims, bystanders, and public safety personnel are safe. This involves
mitigating safety hazards that may further threaten victims, bystanders,
and public safety personnel. They must exercise due caution to avoid
injuries to themselves and others.

c. Preserve the fire scene.

 First responders must understand how rescue, medical, fire suppression,
overhaul, and salvage efforts can adversely affect evidence and take steps
to preserve it. They should secure the fire scene and identify potential
evidence, take preliminary steps to preserve it, and notify appropriate
authorities about its existence.

d. Establish security and control
 First responders should immediately establish control of the scene and
initiate documentation of the scene.
e. Coordinate interagency activities
 First responders must coordinate emergency operations between
many different agencies and organizations.

2. EVALUATING THE SCENE

 Once a lead investigator arrives at the scene to relieve the first responders, he or
she should evaluate the scene, identify witnesses and survey what must be done.
The lead investigator must:

a. Contact first responders and establish presence.

 The investigator should meet with the incident commander and first
responders to assess previous events and the current status of the fire
scene, make introductions, identify essential personnel, and determine
scene safety and integrity issues.
b. Define the scene's boundaries.
 The investigator should perform a preliminary scene assessment,
determine the area in which the site examination will be conducted and
establish the scene perimeter.
c. Identify and interview witness(es) at the scene.
 The investigator should determine the identities of witnesses and conduct
interviews.
d. Assess scene security at the time of the fire.
 The investigator should determine whether the building or vehicle was
intact and secure and if intrusion alarms or fire detection and suppression
systems were operational at the time of the fire.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 100

 e. Identify the resources required to process the scene.
 The investigator should determine what personnel may be required to
process the scene according to National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
921 and other recognized national guidelines.
Note: Except in the most obvious cases, the determination of a fire's origin and
cause may be a complex and difficult undertaking that requires specialized
training and experience as well as knowledge of generally accepted scientific
methods of fire investigation.[1]The investigator must either have appropriate
expertise or call upon the assistance of someone with that knowledge.

3. DOCUMENTING THE SCENE

a. Photograph or videotape the scene.

 The investigator should create and preserve an accurate visual record of
the scene and the evidence prior to disturbing the scene.
b. Describe and document the scene.
 The investigator should create a permanent, documented record of
observations to refresh recollections, support the investigator's opinions
and conclusions, and support photographic documentation.

4. PROCESSING EVIDENCE AT THE SCENE

a. Identify, collect and preserve evidence.

 The investigator should ensure that evidence collectors identify,
document, collect and preserve evidence for laboratory analyses, further
investigations and court proceedings.
b. Prevent evidence contamination.
 The investigator should control access to the fire scene after fire
suppression and see that evidence is collected, stored and transported so
that it will not be contaminated.
c. Package and transport evidence.
 The investigator should ensure that packaging, transportation and storage
procedures are followed to prevent any destructive changes in the
condition of samples.
d. Comply with shipping regulations.
e. Establish and maintain the chain of custody.
 The investigator should ensure that the chain of custody is maintained.

5. COMPLETING THE INVESTIGATION

a. Release the scene.

 The investigator should release the scene after reasonable efforts have
been made to identify, collect and remove all evidence from the scene for
examination and that all physical characteristics of the scene have been
documented. In addition, prior to releasing the scene, associated legal,
health and safety issues must be articulated to the party taking over the
investigation and reported to public safety agencies if necessary.
 conditions, evidence, legal issues).
b. Submit reports to the appropriate databases.
 The responsible agencies must file incident reports with the appropriate
databases. Detailed fire information is collected, integrated and
disseminated through national and State databases. These data help
authorities identify fire trends and develop innovative procedures and
equipment.
Uses of investigative checklist
There are three main reasons to use an investigative checklist as follows:
1. To ensure that every pertinent fact about the case has been identified.
2. To identify the case to be assigned to case management system ; and

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 101

 3. To serve as a supervisory tool in evaluating an individual investigator’s
performance in the assignment of additional case based on the case load. The
investigative checklist includes the following type of data
a. Identity of the assigned investigator, victim and suspect or defendant’s
information.
b. Detailed information about the incident, including, time address,
identity of the fire chief, first fighter and police officer at scene and so
on.
c. Detailed information relating t the investigative procedure and steps
taken
d. Identification of physical evidence and follow up procedures.

Fire/Arson Investigation Checklist

1. Scene Investigation:
a. SCENE SECURED & Evidence Protected
b. Retain qualified Fire Expert IMMEDIATELY
c. Retain “fire savvy” Legal Counsel EARLY
d. Scene Data Collection & Documentation
 NFPA 921 compliant systematic examination
 BEWARE Expectation and/or Confirmation Bias
 Diagramming
 Measurements
 General scene conditions, including weather
 Ventilation
 Pre-loss construction & systems
 Photography and ideography
 Google Earth / Crane / Drones
e. Area of Origin
 Established correctly and well documented
 All other areas considered / eliminated
 Point of Origin Established Correctly
 Documented and diagrammed
f. Consider
 Potential for Spoliation claims / issues
 Notice to other Interested Parties
 Investigative Resources (& potential cost sharing)
 Destructive Testing Protocols
g. Ignition Source(s)
 Identified AND well documented
 All other sources considered/ eliminated
 Samples preserved and tested
h. Material(s) First Ignited
 Identified AND well documented
i. Sufficient scene excavation & reconstruction
 Consideration of potential contamination
j. Hypothesis Testing – substantive and provable?
k. Consider need for other experts and/or consultants
l. Comparison with other opinions
 Public Agency
 Other experts
m. Evidence properly identified, documented and secured
n. Before you leave the scene, consider:
 Dramatic / impactful photo sequences

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 102

  Additional Diagrams and other demonstrative evidence
 Photo matches – with FD/PD photos, etc.
 Gather all data needed to later do fire modeling
 Additional expertise for specialized areas
 ALL INGRESS / EGRESS OPENINGS thoroughly documented?
 Contents well documented
2. Non-Scene Investigation:
a. Who will be involved in the investigation (“Boots on the ground”)
 Independent
 SIU
b. Revisit use of counsel
 When retained
 Extent of control
 Advice of counsel
c. Interviews
 Identifying witnesses
 Insured(s) o
 Employees o
 Suppliers, customers, debtors, creditors
 Percipient witnesses
 Fire hotline number
 Fire personnel (Reporting & Immunity Statutes)
 First on scene observations (scene security, 1st sited flames,
etc.)
 Changes to the scene
 Suppression tactics (and possible impact)
 Overhaul (and impact)
 FD Investigation, including evidence collection
 Witnesses & witness statements
 Evidence collected, testing, results
 Law enforcement (Reporting & Immunity Statutes)
d. Sources of Statements and Testimony by Insured
 Interview by Fire Investigator
 Law Enforcement and Fire Personnel interviews
 Records of calls in fire hotline and Other claim file records
 Examination Under Oath
e. Documentary Evidence
 Agent’s file o Underwriting file
 Pre-loss inspection reports
 Initial Loss report o Law enforcement reports (including prior reports)
o Fire agency reports
 Call history
f. Digital and Electronic Evidence
 Social Media posts evidence
 Cellular & Text messages
 Cell Tower Data
 Alarm records
 Photos and videos metadata
g. Other experts and consultants
 Loss consultants and appraisers
 Forensic accountants
h. Comparing, resolving any conflicting findings
3. File Monitoring ( File Reporting )

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 103

 a. Timely
b. Assigned division of labor
c. Appropriate content
d. Reflective of fire origin and cause investigation protocol and findings
e. Other investigation properly documented and monitored
f. Documentation consistent with claims handling regulations requirements
g. Follow-up as necessary
h. Notes are relevant
4. Communications With Insured
a. Acknowledgement of claim
b. Duties After Loss notice
c. Status Updates
d. Reservation of rights
e. Records and information requests
f. Responding to attorneys and public adjusters
g. Good Faith – TONE IS IMPORTANT!

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 104

 TABLES OF PENALTIES
PENALTIES Included in the Included in its Included in its Included in its
penalty in his Maximum medium period minimum period
entirely

Reclusion Life imprisonment From 20 years

Perpertua Pardon in executive and 1 day to 40
cumancy of 40 years
years

Reclusion From 12 years and From 17 years,4 From 14 years, 8 From 12 years
Temporal 1 day to 20 years months and 1 months and 1 and 1 day to 14
day to 20 years day to 17 years years and 8
months

Prison Mayor From 6 years and 1 from 10 years From 8 years and From 6 years and
day to 12 years and 1 day to 12 1 day to 0 years 1 day to 8 years
years

Prison From 6 months From 4 years, 2 From 2 years and From 6 months
correctional and 1 day to 6 months and 1 4 months and 1 and 1 day to 2
years day day to 4 years years and 4
and 2 months months

Arresto From 1 month and From 4 months From 2 months From 1 month
Mayor 1 day to 2 months and 1 days and 1 day to 4 and 1 day to 2
To 6 years months months

Arresto From 1 month and From 1 month From 2 months From 1 months
Mayor 1 day to 2 months and 1 day to and 21 days to 3 and 1 day to 1
minimum 2months months and 10 month and 10
days days

Arresto From 2 months From 3 months From 4 months 4 months and 1

Mayor and 1 day to 4 and 11 days to 4 and 21 days to 3 days to 4 months
Medium months months months and 10 and 20 days
days

Arresto From 4 months From 5 months From 4 months From 1 to 10

Mayor and 1 day to 6 and 11 days to 6 and 21 days to 5 days
Maximum months months months and 10
days

Arreto Menor From 1 to 30 days From 2 to 30 From 11 to 20

days days

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 105

LEGAL PRESUMPTION
In strictly legal terms a fire is considered to be an accidental origin
proved otherwise. But as firefighter know very well, it is not unusual to
make out a case for arson, even when experience strongly suggests the
fire was not accidental. Hence, when the police are also having a
responsibility to investigate a fire, they should exploit the fire fighter
eagerness to put their suspicious to the test; when the arson raised, the
first step toward proving corpus delicti is taken.

People are usually responsible for questioning the source of the fire.
Not only the victim but customer’s tenants, and business rivals may
express the belief that the fire in question was most timely or convenient.
Physical evidence can also strongly suggest arson; for instance, when two
distinctly separate fires are encountered at the time in the same premises.
Records are least likely to be immediate service, but later in the
investigation they may be in valuable in establishing motive.

Rather the prejudice any fire, the investigator should question all
information until it s verified. To minimize the loss of evidence, every fire
scene be treated as a potential crime scene; any conclusion as to cause
must be based on the totality of the evidence gathered. The investigator
must then sort it from a “working hypothesis” and modify it is needed. Is
the date collected continues to support the hypothesis, the end product
should file the facts – that is answer all challenges.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 106

 Emergency Medical Services (EMS)
 Also known as ambulance services (abbreviated to the initialize EMS,
EMAS, EMARS, or SAMU in some countries). This term refers to the
treatment and transport of people in crisis health situations that may be
life threatening.
Types of EMS System

 As part of Fire Department

 By allowing a contracted private company to provide service
 As a third service
 As part of the police department
 Public Safety Officers

EMS and the Fire Service

 The fire service and emergency medical care, or first aid, have a long
standing relationship. From the very first contact with fire there has been
the need to minister to those who have been injured by it. It was always the
firefighters who rescued people from buildings which were on fire. Fire
engines carried first aid equipment for most of the twentieth century. When
more advanced emergency procedures were developed for first aid providers
it was only natural to involve the fire service. While some cities, or other
areas, have placed the responsibility on private industry, or other forms of
emergency service, EMS still is a large part of any fire department. Fire
apparatus now respond to a large list of potential, or known, medical calls.
Fire companies respond on traffic accidents and heart attacks, just to name
two examples. For better or worse, many cities are beginning to view
medical runs as a source of revenue that helps to support or improve the
level of care they can offer. No matter how one may feel about the subject,
EMS and the fire service is probably here to stay.

Types of Service-Based Systems

The fire-service can be configured many ways to deliver pre hospital emergency
medical such as the following general configuration.

• Fire service service‐based system using cross‐trained/multi trained/multi‐ role

firefighters. – Firefighters are all‐hazards responders, prepared to handle any
situation that may arise at a scene including patient care and transport.

• Fire service‐base system using employees who are not cross‐trained as fire
suppression personnel. – Single role EMS‐trained responders accompanying
firefighter first‐responders

• Combined system using the fire department for emergency response and a
private or “third service” provider for transportation support. – Single role
emergency medical technicians and paramedics accompany firefighter first
responders to emergency scenes to provide patient transport in a private or third
service ambulance.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 107

 BURN
 A burn is a type of injury to skin, or other cause by heat, cold, electricity,
chemicals, friction, or radiation. Most burns are due to heat from hot
solids of fire.

Types of Burns

1. Thermal burns
 Is a type of burn resulting from making contact with heated objects, such
as boiling water, steam, hot cooking oil, fire, and hot object. Scalds are
the most common type of thermal burn suffered by children, but for adults
thermal burns are most commonly used by fire.

2. Chemical burns
 Also known as caustic burn, it occurs when your skin or eyes come into
contact with an irritant, such as an acid or a base, they may cause a
reaction on your skin or within your body. These burns can affect your
internal organs if chemical are swallowed.

3. Electrical current
 Is a burn that results from electricity passing through the body causing
rapid injury.

4. Inhalation
 Is a nonspecific term that refers to damage to the respiratory tract or lung
tissue from heat, smoke or chemical irritants carried into an airway during
inspiration.

5. Radiation burns
 The radiation types of greatest concern are thermal radiation, radio
frequency energy, ultraviolet light and ionizing radiation. The most
common s sunburn caused by UV radiation. High exposure to X-rays
during diagnostic medical imaging or radiotherapy can also result in
radiation burns.

Common causes of burn injuries.

Home and Apartment Fire

 Home and apartment fires can caused by several things, including
electrical appliances, fireplaces, cigarettes, candles, heaters, and defective
products. If the underlying cause of the fire is due to someone’s negligence
or defective product, the home owners may file claims to recover any
damages to the property, and accident victims may also file claims for
compensation for any injuries sustained.

Negligence Landlord fire issues

 Landlords have specific obligations with respect to the tenants in their

rental homes. Such obligations include installing smoke alarms, having
fire escapes and electrical wiring in compliance with codes and
maintaining escape routes in common areas. Two key landlord
responsibilities are.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 108

Classifications of burns
Burns are classified as first-, second-, or third-degree, depending on how deep and
severe they penetrate the skin's surface.

A. Superficial (1st degree).

 It’s an injury that affect the first layer of the skin. One of the mildest form
of the skin injuries and they usually don’t require medical treatment.
 The burn site is red, painful, dry, and with no blisters.
 Mild sunburn is an example.
 Long-term tissue damage is rare and usually consists of an
increase or decrease in the skin color.
 The area will be painful and tender.

B. Partial Thickness (2nd degree)

 Burns involve the epidermis and part of the dermis layer of skin.
 The burn site appears red, blistered, and may be swollen.
 The area will be severely painful.

C. Full Thickness (3rd Degree)

 Burns go through the dermis and affect deeper tissues, subcutaneous fat,
and muscles.
 The inner skin will appear leathery and dark brown to black.
 The inner area will not be painful but the outer edges will be.

D. Fourth Degree (4th Degree)

 burns also damage the underlying bones, muscles, and tendons. There is
no sensation in the area since the nerve endings are destroyed.
 These burns result in charring and loss of function of the affected
area.
 Penetrate entirely through the skin and begin to burn the
underlying muscle and ligaments.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 109

 Laws, Penal Codes (PD’s)
. Republic Acts (RA’s)
And BFP Memorandum

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 110

 ARSON AND OTHER FORM OF DESTRUCTION

Following are the existing provision of Article 320 to 326 –A, Chapter VIII –Arson
other forms of Destruction as provide by Penal code. Although some of the decrees
promulgated, others are in effect, more particular those which are still harmony with
the newly issued laws.

The presentation of the different article on laws on arson in this chapter is

somewhat different as compared to the stereo-types presentation in the penal code. This
is intentionally done for provisions itself were presented verbatim including the specific
number of articles.

Destructive Arson

 The penalty of reclusion perpetua to death shall be imposed upon any person
who shall burn: (article 320)

1. One (1) or more buildings or edifices, consequent to one single act of burning,
or as a result of simultaneous burnings, committed on several or different
occasions.
2. Any building of public or private ownership, devoted to the public in general
or where people usually gather or congregate for a definite purpose such as,
but not limited to, official governmental function or business, private
transaction, commerce, trade, workshop, meetings and conferences, or
merely incidental to a definite purpose such as but not limited to hotels,
motels, transient dwellings, public conveyances or stops or terminals,
regardless of whether the offender had knowledge that there are persons in
said building or edifice at the time it is set on fire and regardless also of
whether the building is actually inhabited or not.
3. Any train or locomotive, ship or vessel, airship or airplane, devoted to
transportation or conveyance, or for public use, entertainment or leisure.
4. Any building, factory, warehouse installation and any appurtenances
thereto, which are devoted to the service of public utilities.
5. Any building the burning of which is for the purpose of concealing or
destroying evidence of another violation of law, or for the purpose of
concealing bankruptcy or defrauding creditors or to collect from insurance.
Irrespective of the application of the above enumerated qualifying circumstances,
the penalty of reclusion perpetua to death shall likewise be imposed when the
arson is perpetrated or committed by two (2) or more persons or by a group of
persons, regardless of whether their purpose is merely to burn or destroy the
building or the burning merely constitutes an overt act in the commission or
another violation of law.

The penalty of reclusion perpetua to death shall also be imposed

upon any person who shall burn:

a. Any arsenal, shipyard, storehouse or military powder or fireworks factory,

ordinance, storehouse, archives or general museum of the Government.
b. Any inhabited place, any storehouse or factory of inflammable
or explosive materials.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 111

 c. If as a consequence of the commission of any of the acts penalized under this
Article, death results, the mandatory penalty of death shall be imposed.
(Amended by R.A.7659)

Arson not included in the preceding articles.

 Cases of arson not included in the next preceding articles shall be

punished (article 322)

1. By arresto mayor in its medium and maximum periods, when the damage
caused does not exceed Fifty(Php50.00) pesos;
2. By arresto mayor in its maximum period to prision correctional in its
minimum period, when the damage caused is over Fifty (PhP50.00) pesos but
does not exceed two hundred (Php200.00) pesos;
3. By prision correctional in its minimum and medium periods, if the damage
caused is over Two hundred (Php200.00) pesos but does not exceed 1,000
pesos; and
4. By prision correctional in its medium and maximum periods, if it is over 1,000
pesos.

Arson of property of small value

 The arson of any uninhabited hut, storehouse, barn, shed, or any other property
the value of which does not exceed 25 pesos, committed at a time or under
circumstances which clearly exclude all danger of the fire spreading, shall not be
punished by the penalties respectively prescribed in this chapter, but in
accordance with the damage caused and under the provisions of the following
chapter. (article 323).

Crimes involving destruction

 Any person who shall cause destruction by means of explosion, discharge of

electric current, inundation, sinking or stranding of a vessel, intentional
damaging of the engine of said vessel, taking up the rails from a railway track,
maliciously changing railway signals for the safety of moving trains, destroying
telegraph wires and telegraph posts, or those of any other system, and, in
general, by using any other agency or means of destruction as effective as those
above enumerated, shall be punished by reclusion temporal if the commission
has endangered the safety of any person, otherwise, the penalty of prision mayor
shall be imposed.( article 324)
Burning one's own property as means to commit arson

 Any person guilty of arson or causing great destruction of the property belonging
to another shall suffer the penalties prescribed in this chapter, even though he
shall have set fire to or destroyed his own property for the purposes of committing
the crime. (article 325)

Setting fire to property exclusively owned by the offender

 If the property burned shall be the exclusive property of the offender, he shall be
punished by arresto mayor in its maximum period to prision correctional in its
minimum period, if the arson shall have been committed for the purpose of
defrauding or causing damage to another, or prejudice shall actually have been
caused, or if the thing burned shall have been a building in an inhabited place.
(article 326)

Death resulted as a consequence of arson

 If death resulted as a consequence of arson committed on any of the properties

and under any of the circumstances mentioned in the preceding articles, the
court shall impose the death penalty (article 326 – A)

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 112

 Prima facie evidence of arson.

 Any of the following circumstances shall constitute prima facie evidence of arson
(article – B)

1. If after the fire, are found materials or substances soaked in gasoline,

kerosene, petroleum, or other inflammables, or any mechanical, electrical
chemical or traces or any of the foregoing.
2. That substantial amount of inflammable substance or materials were stored
within the building not necessary in the course of the defendant's business;
and
3. That the fire started simultaneously in more than one part of the building or
locale under circumstances that cannot normally be due to accidental or
unintentional causes: Provided, however, That at least one of the following is
present in any of the three above-mentioned circumstances:

a. That the total insurance carried on the building and/or goods is more than
80 per cent of the value of such building and/or goods at the time of the
fire;
b. That the defendant after the fire has presented a fraudulent claim for loss.
The penalty of prision correctional shall be imposed on one who plants the
articles abovementioned, in order to secure a conviction, or as a means of
extortion or coercion. (As amended by R.A. 5467, approved May 12, 1969).

Other forms of arson

 When the arson consists in the burning of other property and under the
circumstances given hereunder, the offender shall be punishable: (article 321)

1. By reclusion temporal or reclusion perpetua:

a. if the offender shall set fire to any building, farmhouse, warehouse, hut,
shelter, or vessel in port, knowing it to be occupied at the time by one or
more persons;
b. If the building burned is a public building and value of the damage caused
exceeds six thousand (Php.6,000.00) pesos
c. If the building burned is a public building and the purpose is to destroy
evidence kept therein to be used in instituting prosecution for the
punishment of violators of the law, irrespective of the amount of the
damage;
d. If the building burned is a public building and the purpose is to destroy
evidence kept therein to be used in legislative, judicial or administrative
proceedings, irrespective of the amount of the damage; Provided, however,
That if the evidence destroyed is to be used against the defendant for the
prosecution of any crime punishable under existing laws, the penalty shall
be reclusion perpetua
e. If the arson shall have been committed with the intention of collecting
under an insurance policy against loss or damage by fire.

2. By reclusion temporal:

a. If an inhabited house or any other building in which people are

accustomed to meet is set on fire, and the culprit did not know that such
house or building was occupied at the time, or if he shall set fire to a
moving freight train or motor vehicle, and the value of the damage caused
exceeds six thousand (Php 6,000.00)pesos;
b. If the value of the damage caused in paragraph (b) of the preceding
subdivision does not exceed six thousand (Php6,000.00) pesos;

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 113

 c. If a farm, sugar mill, cane mill, mill central, bamboo groves or any similar
plantation is set on fire and the damage caused exceeds six thousand (Php
6,000.00) pesos; and
d. If grain fields, pasture lands, or forests, or plantings are set on fire, and
the damage caused exceeds six thousand (Php6,000.00) pesos.

3. By prision mayor:

a. the value of the damage caused in the case mentioned in paragraphs (a),
(c), and (d) in the next preceding subdivision does not exceed six thousand
(Php 6,000.00) pesos;
b. If a building not used as a dwelling or place of assembly, located in a
populated place, is set on fire, and the damage caused exceeds six
thousand (Php6,000.00) pesos;

4. By prision correctional in its maximum period to prision mayor in its medium

period

a. If a building used as dwelling located in an uninhabited place is set on fire

and the damage caused exceeds one thousand (Php1,000.00) pesos
b. If the value or the damage caused in the case mentioned in paragraphs (c)
and (d) of subdivision 2 of this article does not exceed two hundred
(Php200.00) pesos

5. By prision correccional in its medium period to prision mayor in its minimum

period, when the damage caused is over two hundred(Php200.00) pesos but
does not exceed one thousand (Php1,000.00) pesos, and the property referred
to in paragraph (a) of the preceding subdivision is set on fire; but when the
value of such property does not exceed two hundred (Php200.00) pesos, the
penalty next lower in degree than that prescribed in this subdivision shall be
imposed.

6. The penalty of prision correctional in its medium and maximum periods, if the
damage caused in the case mentioned in paragraph (b) of subdivision 3 of this
article does not exceed six thousand (Php6,000.00) pesos but is over two
hundred ( 200.00) pesos.

7. The penalty of prision correctional in its minimum and medium periods, if the
damage caused in the case mentioned paragraph (b) subdivision 3 of this article
does not exceed two hundred (Php200.00) pesos.

8. The penalty of arresto mayor and a fine ranging from fifty to one hundred per
centum if the damage caused shall be imposed, when the property burned
consists of grain fields, pasture lands, forests, or plantations when the value
of such property does not exceed two hundred (Php 200.00) pesos

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 114

 PRESIDENTIAL DECREE NO. 1613
AMENDING THE LAW ON ARSON
WHEREAS, findings of the police and intelligence agencies of the government reveal
that fires and other crimes involving destruction in Metro Manila and other urban
centers in the country are being perpetuated by criminal syndicates, some
of which have foreign connections;

WHEREAS, the current law on arson suffer from certain inadequacies that impede the
successful enforcement and prosecution of arsonists;

WHEREAS, it is imperative that the high incidence of fires and other crimes involving
destruction be prevented to protect the national economy and preserve the social
economic and political stability of the country;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, FERDINAND E. MARCOS, President of the Philippines, by

virtue of the powers vested in me by the Constitution do hereby order and decree as
part of the law of the land, the following:

Sec. 1. Arson. — Any person who burns or sets fire to the property of another shall be
punished by Prison mayor.
The same penalty shall be imposed when a person sets fire to his own property under
circumstances which expose to danger the life or property of another.

Sec. 2. Destructive Arson. — The penalty of Reclusion temporal in its maximum

period to Reclusion perpetua shall be imposed if the property burned is any of the
following:
1. Any ammunition factory and other establishment where explosives, inflammable or
combustible materials are stored.
2. Any archive, museum, whether public or private or any edifice devoted to culture,
education or social services.
3. Any church or place or worship or other building where people usually assemble.
4. Any train, airplane or any aircraft, vessel or watercraft, or conveyance for
transportation of persons or property.
5. Any building where evidence is kept for use in any legislative, judicial,
administrative or other official proceedings.
6. Any hospital, hotel, dormitory, lodging house, housing tenement, shopping center,
public or private market, theater or movie house or any similar place or building.
7. Any building, whether used as dwelling or not, situated in a populated or congested
area.

Sec. 3. Other Cases of Arson. — The penalty of Reclusion temporal to

Reclusion perpetua shall be imposed if the property
burned is any of the following:

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 115

1. Any building used as offices of the government or any of its agencies;
2. Any uninhabited house or dwelling;
3. Any industrial establishment, shipyard, oil well or mine shaft, platform or tunnel;
4. Any plantation, farm, pastureland, growing crop, grain filed, orchard, bamboo grove
or forest;
5. Any rice mill, cane mill or mill central; and
6. Any railway or bus station, airport, wharf or warehouse.

Sec. 4. Special Aggravating Circumstances in Arson. — The penalty in any case of

arson shall be imposed in its maximum period:
1. If committed with intent to gain;
2. If committed for the benefit of another;
3. If the offender is motivated by spite or hatred towards the owner or occupant of the
property burned;
4. If committed by a syndicate.
The offense is committed by a syndicate if it is planned or carried out by a group of
three (3) or more persons.

Sec. 5. Where Death Results From Arson. — If by reason of or on the occasion of

arson death results, the penalty of Reclusion perpetua to death shall be imposed.

Sec. 6. Prima Facie Evidence of Arson. — Any of the following circumstances shall
constitute prima facie evidence of arson:
1. If the fire started simultaneously in more than one part of the building or
establishment.
2. If substantial amount of flammable substances or materials are stored within the
building not necessary in the business of the offender nor for household use.
3. Gasoline, kerosene, petroleum or other flammable or combustible substances or
materials soaked therewith or containers, thereof, or any mechanical, electrical,
chemical, or electronic contrivance designed to start a fire, or ashes or traces of any of
the foregoing are found in the ruins or premises of the burned building or property.
4. If the building or property is insured for substantially more than its actual value at
the time of the issuance of the policy.
5. If during the lifetime of the corresponding fire insurance policy more than two fires
have occurred in the same or other premises owned or under the control of the
offender and/or insured.
6. If shortly before the fire a substantial portion of the effects insured and stored in
building or property had been withdrawn from the premises except in the ordinary
course of business.
7. If a demand for money or other valuable consideration was made before the fire in
exchange for the desistance of the offender or for the safety of other person or property
of the victim.

Sec. 7. Conspiracy to Commit Arson. — Conspiracy to commit arson shall be

punished by prison mayor in its minimum period.

Sec. 8. Confiscation of Object of Arson. — The building which is the object of arson
including the land on which it is situated shall be confiscated and escheated to the
State, unless the owner thereof can prove that he has no participation in
nor knowledge of such arson despite the exercise of due diligence on his part.

Sec. 9. Repealing Clause. — The provisions of Articles 320 to 326-B of the Revised
Penal Code and all laws, executive orders, rules and regulations, or parts thereof,
inconsistent with the provisions of this Decree are hereby repealed
or amended accordingly.

Sec. 10. Effectivity. — This Decree shall take effect immediately upon publication
thereof at least once in a newspaper of general circulation.
Done in the City of Manila this 7th day of March nineteen hundred and seventy nine.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 116

 PRESIDENTIAL DECREE No. 1744
WHEREAS, there have been rampant and wanton burnings of residential houses,
public buildings, markets, hotels, and other commercial establishments;
WHEREAS, to effectively discourage and deter the commission of arson, and to
prevent destruction of properties and protect the lives of innocent people, it is necessary
that the capital punishment be imposed upon arsonists 320 Revised Penal Code be
amended:

Destruction of Arson
Hereunder are types of destructive arson provided by article 320, RCP, as
amended by Section, PD 1744

1. One (1) or more buildings or edifices, consequent to one single act of burning,
or as result of simultaneous burnings, or committed on several or different
occasions;

2. Any building of public or private ownership, devoted to the use of the public
in general, or where people usually gather or congregated for a definite
purpose such as but not limited to official governmental function or business,
private transaction, commerce, trade, worship, meetings and conferences, or
merely incidental to a definite purpose such as but not limited to hotels,
motels, transient dwellings, public conveyance or stops or terminals,
regardless of whether the offender had knowledge that there are persons in
said building or edifice at the time it is set on fire, and regardless also of
whether the building is actually inhabited or not.

3. Any train or locomotive, ship or vessel, airship or airplane, devoted to

transportation or convenience, or public use, entertainment or leisure.

4. Any building, factory, warehouse installation and any appurtenances thereto,

which are devoted to the service of public utilities.

4. Any building, the burning of which is for the purpose of concealing or

destroying evidence of another violation of law, or for the purpose of
concealing bankruptcy or defrauding creditors or to collect from insurance.

Irrespective of the application of the above enumerated qualifying circumstances,

the penalty of death shall likewise be imposed when the arson is perpetrated or
committed by two (2) or more persons or by a group of persons, regardless of
whether their purpose is merely to burn or destroy the building or the edifice, or
the burning merely constitutes an overt act in the commission or another
violation of law. The penalty of reclusion temporal in its maximum period to death
shall also be imposed upon any person who shall burn:

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 117

 (a) Any arsenal, shipyard, storehouse or military powder or fireworks factory,
ordinance storehouse, archives or general museum of the government.
(b) In an inhabited place, any storehouse or factory of inflammable or explosive
materials.
If as a consequence of the commission of any of the acts penalized under this
Article, death or injury results, or any valuable documents, equipment,
machineries, apparatus, or other valuable properties were burned or destroyed,
the mandatory penalty of death shall be imposed.”
Repealing Clause
The Provisions of Articles 320, 321 and 322 of the Revised Penal Code which are
or may be inconsistent herewith are hereby repealed (section 2)

Effectivity.
This Decree shall take effect immediately.

REPUBLIC ACT no. 9514

 This Act which a consolidation of Senate Bill no. 2553 and House Bill no. 4115
was finally passed by the Senate and the House of Representative on October 6,
2008 and October 8, 2008 respectively.
Title of the Act
 This Act shall be known as the "Fire Code of the Philippines of 2008". (Section
1)

Declaration of Policy
 It is the policy of the State to ensure public safety and promote economic
development through the prevention and suppression of all kinds of destructive
fires and promote the professionalization of the fire service as a profession.

Definition of Terms
 As used in this Fire Code, The following words and Phrases shall mean and be
construed as indicated (Section 3).

Abatement
 Any act that would remove or neutralize a fire hazard.
Administrator
 Any person who acts as agent of the owner and manages the use of a
building for him.
Blasting Agent
 Any material or mixture consisting of a fuel and oxidizer used to set off
explosives.
Cellulose Nitrate Or Nitro Cellulose
 A highly combustible and explosive compound produced by the reaction
of nitric acid with a cellulose material.
Cellulose Nitrate Plastic (Pyroxylin)
 Any plastic substance, materials or compound having cellulose nitrate
(nitro cellulose) as base.
Combustible, Flammable or Inflammable
 Descriptive of materials that are easily set on fire.
Combustible Fiber
 Any readily ignitable and free burning fiber such as cotton, oakum, rags,
waste cloth, waste paper, kapok, hay, straw, Spanish moss, excelsior and
other similar materials commonly used in commerce.
Combustible Liquid
 Any liquid having a flash point at or above 37.8_C (100_F).
Corrosive Liquid
 Any liquid which causes fire when in contact with organic matter or with
certain chemicals.

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 Curtain Board
 A vertical panel of non-combustible or fire resistive materials attached to
and extending below the bottom chord of the roof trusses, to divide the
underside of the roof into separate compartments so that heat and smoke
will be directed upwards to a roof vent.
Cryogenic
 Descriptive of any material which by its nature or as a result of its reaction
with other elements produces a rapid drop in temperature of the
immediate surroundings.
Damper
 A normally open device installed inside an air duct system which
automatically closes to restrict the passage of smoke or fire.

Distillation
 The process of first raising the temperature in separate the more volatile
from the less volatile parts and then cooling and condensing the resulting
vapor so as to produce a nearly purified substance.
Duct System
 A continuous passageway for the transmission of air.
Dust
 A finely powdered substance which, when mixed with air in the proper
proportion and ignited will cause an explosion.
Electrical Arc
 An extremely hot luminous bridge formed by passage of an electric current
across a space between two conductors or terminals due to the
incandescence of the conducting vapor.
Ember
 A hot piece or lump that remains after a material has partially burned,
and is still oxidizing without the manifestation of flames.
Finishes
 Materials used as final coating of a surface for ornamental or protective
purposes.
Fire
 The active principle of burning, characterized by the heat and light of
combustion.
Fire Trap
 A building unsafe in case of fire because it will burn easily or because it
lacks adequate exits or fire escapes.
Fire Alarm
 Any visual or audible signal produced by a device or system to warm the
occupants of the building or firefighting elements of the presence or
danger of fire to enable them to undertake immediate action to save life
and property and to suppress the fire.
Fire Door
 A fire resistive door prescribed for openings in fire separation walls or
partitions.
Fire Hazard
 Any condition or act which increases or may cause an increase in the
probability of the occurrence of fire, or which may obstruct, delay, hinder
or interfere with firefighting operations and the safeguarding of life and
property.
Fire Lane
 The portion of a roadway or public way that should be kept opened and
unobstructed at all times for the expedient operation of firefighting units.
Fire Protective and Fire Safety Device
 Any device intended for the protection of buildings or persons to include
but not limited to built-in protection system such as sprinklers and other
automatic extinguishing system, detectors for heat, smoke and

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 combustion products and other warning system components, personal
protective equipment such as fire blankets, helmets, fire suits, gloves and
other garments that may be put on or worn by persons to protect
themselves during fire.
Fire Safety Constructions
 Refers to design and installation of walls, barriers, doors, windows, vents,
means of egress, etc. integral to and incorporated into a building or
structure in order to minimize danger to life from fire, smoke, fumes or
panic before the building is evacuated. These features are also designed
to achieve, among others, safe and rapid evacuation of people through
means of egress sealed from smoke or fire, the confinement of fire or
smoke in the room or floor of origin and delay their spread to other parts
of the building by means of smoke sealed and fire resistant doors, walls
and floors. It shall also mean to include the treatment of buildings
components or contents with flame retardant chemicals.

Flash Point
 The minimum temperature at which any material gives off vapor in
sufficient concentration to form an ignitable mixture with air.
Forcing
 A process where a piece of metal is heated prior to changing its shape or
dimensions.
Fulminate
 A kind of stable explosive compound which explodes by percussion.
Hazardous Operation/Process
 Any act of manufacturing, fabrication, conversion, etc., that uses or
produces materials which are likely to cause fires or explosions.

Horizontal Exit
 Passageway from one building to another or through or around a wall in
approximately the same floor level.
Hose Box
 A box or cabinet where fire hoses, valves and other equipment are stored
and arranged for firefighting.
Hose Reel
 A cylindrical device turning on an axis around which a fire hose is wound
and connected.
Hypergolic Fuel
 A rocket or liquid propellant which consist of combinations of fuels and
oxidizers which ignite spontaneously on contact with each other.
Industrial Baking and Drying
 The industrial process of subjecting materials to heat for the purpose of
removing solvents or moisture from the same, and/or to fuse certain
chemical salts to form a uniform glazing the surface of materials being
treated.
Jumper
 A piece of metal or an electrical conductor used to bypass a safety device
in an electrical system.
Occupancy
 The purpose for which a building or portion thereof is used or intended to
be used.
Occupant
 Any person actually occupying and using a building or portions thereof
by virtue of a lease contract with the owner or administrator or by
permission or sufferance of the latter.
Organic Peroxide
 A strong oxidizing organic compound which releases oxygen readily. It
causes fire when in contact with combustible materials especially under
conditions of high temperature.
Overloading

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  The use of one or more electrical appliances or devices which draw or
consume electrical current beyond the designed capacity of the existing
electrical system.
Owner
 The person who holds the legal right of possession or title to a building or
real property.
Oxidizing Material
 A material that readily yields oxygen in quantities sufficient to stimulate
or support combustion.
Pressurized Or Forced Draft Burning Equipment
 Type or burner where the fuel is subjected to pressure prior to discharge
into the combustion chamber and/or which includes fans or other
provisions for the introduction of air at above normal atmosphere
pressure into the same combustion chamber.
Public Assembly Building
 Any building or structure where fifty (50) or more people congregate,
gather, or assemble for any purpose.

Public Way
 Any street, alley or other strip of land unobstructed from the ground to
the sky, deeded, dedicated or otherwise permanently appropriated for
public use.
Pyrophoric
 Descriptive of any substance that ignites spontaneously when exposed to
air.
Refining
 A process where impurities and/or deleterious materials are removed
from a mixture in order to produce a pure element of compound. It shall
also refer to partial distillation and electrolysis.
Self-Closing Doors
 Automatic closing doors that are designed to confine smoke and heat and
delay the spread of fire.
Smelting
 Melting or fusing of metallic ores or compounds so as to separate
impurities from pure metals.
Sprinkler System
 An integrated network of hydraulically designed piping installed in a
building, structure or area with outlets arranged in a systematic pattern
which automatically discharges water when activated by heat or
combustion products from a fire.
Standpipe System
 A system of vertical pipes in a building to which fire hoses can be attached
on each floor, including a system by which water is made available to the
outlets as needed.
Vestibule
 A passage hall or antechamber between the outer doors and the interior
parts of a house or building.
Vertical Shaft
 An enclosed vertical space of passage that extends from floor to floor, as
well as from the base to the top of the building.

Applicability of the Code

 The provisions of the Fire Code shall apply to all persons and all private
and public buildings, facilities or structures erected or constructed before
and after its effectivity. (Secton 4)

Responsibility for the Enforcement of this Code

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 121

  This Code shall be administered and enforced by the Bureau of Fire
Protection (BFP), under the direct supervision and control of the Chief of
the Bureau of Fire Protection, through the hierarchy of organization as
provided for in Chapter VI of Republic Act No. 6975. with the approval of
the Secretary of the Department of the Interior and Local Government
(DILG), the BFP, is hereby authorized to: (Section 5)

(a) Issue implementing rules and regulations, and prescribe standards, schedules
of fees/fire service charges and administrative penalties therefore as provided in
the pertinent provisions of this Code;

(b) Reorganize the BFP as may be necessary and appropriate;

(c) Support and assist fire volunteers, practitioners and fire volunteer
organizations in the country who shall undergo mandatory fire suppression,
inspection, rescue, emergency medical services and related emergency response
trainings and competency evaluations to be conducted by the BFP. In the case of
the Fire practitioners, they shall undergo mandatory continuous professional
education and competency evaluation of their expertise, knowledge and skills in
the area of fire science, engineering and technology to be conducted by the BFP;

The BFP may enter into external party agreements for the conduct of training,
education and evaluation of fire volunteers, practitioners and fire volunteer
organizations, which shall be under the full control and supervision of the BFP:
Provided, however, That during firefighting operations, fire volunteer
organizations shall be under the direct operational control of the fire ground
commanders of the BFP;

(d) Enter into long term agreement, either through public biddings or negotiations
in accordance with the provisions of Republic Act No. 9184, otherwise known as
the Government Procurement Reform Act of 2003, for the acquisition of fire
prevention, fire protection and firefighting investigation, rescue, paramedics,
hazardous material handling equipment, supplies, materials and related
technical services necessary for the fire services;

(e) Enter into Memoranda of Agreement with other departments, bureaus,

agencies, offices and corporations of the government, as well as private
institutions, in order to define areas of cooperation and coordination and
delineate responsibility on fire prevention education, fire safety, fire prevention,
fire suppression and other matters of common concern;

(f) Call on the police, other law enforcement agencies, and local government
assistance to render necessary assistance in the enforcement of this Code;

(g) Designate a fire safety inspector through his/her duly authorized

representative, who shall conduct an inspection of every building or structure
within his area of responsibility at least once a year and every time the owner,
administrator or occupant shall renew his/her business permit or permit to
operate;

No occupancy permit, business or permit to operate shall be issued without

securing a Fire Safety Inspection Certification (FSIC) from the Chief, BFP, or
his/her duly authorized representative;

(h) Inspect at reasonable time, any building, structure, installation or premises

for dangerous or hazardous conditions or materials as set forth in this Code,
provided that in case of single family dwelling, an inspection must be upon the
consent of the occupant or upon lawful order from the proper court. The Chief,
BFP or his/her duly authorized representative shall order the owner/occupant to
remove hazardous materials and/or stop hazardous operation/process in
accordance with the standards set by this Code or its implementing rules or
regulations or other pertinent laws;

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 122

 (i) Where conditions exist and are deemed hazardous to life and property, to order
the owner/occupant of any building or structure to summarily abate such
hazardous conditions;

(j) Require the building owner/occupant to submit plans and specifications, and
other pertinent documents of said building to ensure compliance with applicable
codes and standards; and

(k) Issue a written notice to the owner and/or contractor to stop work on portion
of any work due to absence, or in violation of approved plans and specifications,
permit and/or clearance or certification as approved by the Chief, BFP or his/her
duly authorized representative. The notice shall state the nature of the violation
and no work shall be continued on that portion until the violation has been
corrected.

Technical Staff

 The Chief, BFP shall constitute a technical staff of highly qualified persons who
are knowledgeable on fire prevention, fire safety, and fire suppression. They may
be drawn not only from the organic members of the BFP and other government
offices and agencies, but also from other sources. In the latter case, they will
either be appointed into the service or hired as consultants in accordance with
law.
 The technical staff shall study, review and evaluate latest developments and
standards on fire technology; prepare plans/programs on fire safety, prevention
and suppression and evaluate implementation thereof; develop programs on the
professionalization of the fire service; coordinate with appropriate government
and private institutions for the offering of college courses on fire technology and
fire protection engineering; propose amendments to the Fire Code;
 Advise the Chief, BFP on any matter brought to his attention; and perform such
other functions as directed on any matter brought to his attention and perform
such other functions as directed by higher authorities. (Section 6)

Inspections, Safety Measures, Fire Safety, Constructions, and Protective and/or

Warning Systems

 As may be defined and provided in the Rules and Regulations, owners,

administrators or occupants of buildings, structures and their premises or
facilities and other responsible persons shall be required to comply with the
following, as may be appropriate; (Section 7)

(a) Inspection Requirement – A fire safety inspection shall be conducted by the

Chief, BFP or his duly authorized representative as prerequisite to the grants of
permits and/or licenses by local governments and other government agencies
concerned, for the:

(1) Use or occupancy of buildings, structures, facilities or their premises

including the installation or fire protection and fire safety
equipment, and electrical system in any building structure or
facility; and

(2) Storage, handling and/or use of explosives or of combustible,

flammable, toxic and other hazardous materials;

(b) Safety Measures for Hazardous Materials – Fire safety measures shall be
required for the manufacture, storage, handling and/or use of hazardous
materials involving:

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 123

 (1) cellulose nitrate plastic of any kind;

(2) combustible fibers;

(3) cellular materials such as foam, rubber, sponge rubber and plastic
foam;

(4) flammable and combustible liquids or gases of any classification;

(5) flammable paints, varnishes, stains and organic coatings;

(6) high-piled or widely spread combustible stock;

(7) metallic magnesium in any form;

(8) corrosive liquids, oxidizing materials, organic peroxide, nitromethane,

ammonium nitrate, or any amount of highly toxic, pyrophoric,
hypergolic, or cryogenic materials or poisonous gases as well as
material compounds which when exposed to heat or flame become
a fire conductor, or generate excessive smoke or toxic gases;

(9) blasting agents, explosives and special industrial explosive materials,

blasting caps, black powder, liquid nitro-glycerine, dynamite, nitro
cellulose, fulminates of any kind, and plastic explosives containing
ammonium salt or chlorate;

(10) fireworks materials of any kind or form;

(11) matches in commercial quantities;

(12) hot ashes, live coals and embers;

(13) mineral, vegetable or animal oils and other derivatives/by products;

(14) combustible waste materials for recycling or resale;

(15) explosive dusts and vapors; and

(16) agriculture, forest, marine or mineral products which may undergo

spontaneous combustion.

(17) any other substance with potential to cause harm to persons, property
or the environment because of one or more of the following: a) The
chemical properties of the substance; b) The physical properties of
the substance; c) The biological properties of the substance.
Without limiting the definition of hazardous material, all dangerous
goods, combustible liquids and chemicals are hazardous materials.

(c) Safety Measures for Hazardous Operation/Processes – Fire Safety measures

shall be required for the following hazardous operation/processes:

(1) welding or soldering;

(2) industrial baking and drying;

(3) waste disposal;

(4) pressurized/forced-draft burning equipment;

(5) smelting and forging;

(6) motion picture projection using electrical arc lamps;

(7) refining, distillation and solvent extraction; and

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 124

 (8) such other operations or processes as may hereafter be prescribed in
the Rules and Regulations.

(d) Provision on Fire Safety Construction, Protective and Warning System –

Owners, occupants or administrator or buildings, structures and their premises or
facilities, except such other buildings or structures as may be exempted in the rules
and regulations to be promulgated under Section 5 hereof, shall incorporate and provide
therein fire safety construction, protective and warning system, and shall develop and
implement fire safety programs, to wit:

(1) Fire protection features such as sprinkler systems, hose boxes, hose
reels or standpipe systems and other fire fighting equipment;

(2) Fire Alarm systems;

(3) Fire walls to separate adjoining buildings, or warehouses and storage

areas from other occupancies in the same building;

(4) Provisions for confining the fire at its source such as fire resistive floors
and walls extending up to the next floor slab or roof, curtain boards
and other fire containing or stopping components;

(5) Termination of all exits in an area affording safe passage to a public

way or safe dispersal area;

(6) Stairway, vertical shafts, horizontal exits and other means of egress
sealed from smoke and heat;

(7) A fire exit plan for each floor of the building showing the routes from
each other room to appropriate exits, displayed prominently on the
door of such room;

(8) Self-closing fire resistive doors leading to corridors;

(9) Fire dampers in centralized air conditioning ducts;

(10) Roof vents for use by fire fighters; and

(11) Properly marked and lighted exits with provision for emergency lights
to adequately illuminate exit ways in case of power failure.

Prohibited Acts

The following are declared as prohibited act and omission. (Section 8)

(a) Obstructing or blocking the exit ways or across to buildings clearly marked
for fire safety purposes, such as but not limited to aisles in interior rooms, any
part of stairways, hallways, corridors, vestibules, balconies or bridges leading to
a stairway or exit of any kind, or tolerating or allowing said violations;

(b) Constructing gates, entrances and walkways to buildings components and

yards which obstruct the orderly and easy passage of fire fighting vehicles and
equipment;

(c) Prevention, interference or obstruction of any operation of the Fire Service, or

of duly organized and authorized fire brigades;

(d) Obstructing designated fire lanes or access to fire hydrants;

(e) Overcrowding or admission of persons beyond the authorized capacity in

movie houses, theaters, coliseums, auditoriums or other public assembly
buildings, except in other assembly areas on the ground floor with open sides or
open doors sufficient to provide safe exits;

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 125

 (f) Locking fire exits during period when people are inside the building;

(g) Prevention or obstruction of the automatic closure of fire doors or smoke

partitions or dampers;

(h) Use of fire protective of firefighting equipment of the fire service other than for
firefighting except in other emergencies where their use are justified;

(i) Giving false or malicious fire alarms;

(j) Smoking in prohibited areas as may be determined by fire service, or throwing

of cigars, cigarettes, burning objects in places which may start or cause fire;

(k) Abandoning or leaving a building or structure by the occupant or owner

without appropriate safety measures;

(l) Removing. destroying, tampering or obliterating any authorized mark, seal,

sign or tag posted or required by the fire service for fire safety in any building,
structure or processing equipment; and

(m) Use of jumpers or tampering with electrical wiring or overloading the electrical
system beyond its designated capacity or such other practices that would tend to
undermine the fire safety features of the electrical system.

Violation, Penalties and Abatement of Fire Hazard

 Fire hazards shall be abated immediately. The Chief, BFP or his/her duly
authorized representative, upon the report that a violation of this Code or other
pertinent laws, rules and regulations is being committed, shall issue notice/order
to comply to the owner administrator, occupant or other person responsible for
the condition of the building or structure, indicating among other things, the
period within which compliance shall be effected, which shall be within ten (10)
to fifteen (15) days after the receipt of the notice/order, depending on the
reasonableness to adequately comply with the same. (Section 9)

 If, after the lapse of the aforesaid period, the owner, administrator, occupant or
other responsible person failed to comply, the Chief, BFP or his/her authorized
representative shall put up a sign in front of the building or structure that it is
fire hazard. Specifically, the notice shall bear the words "WARNING: THIS
BUILDING/STRUCTURE IS A FIRE HAZARD", which shall remain posted until
such time that the owner, administrator, occupant or other person responsible
for the condition of the building, structure and their premises or facilities abate
the same, but such period shall not exceed fifteen (15) days from the lapse of the
initial period given in the notice/order to comply.

 Finally, with the failure of the owner, administrator, occupant or other person
responsible for the condition of the building, structure and their premises or
facilities to comply within the period specified above, the Chief, BFP may issue
order for such abatement. If the owner, administrator or occupant of buildings,
structure and their premises or facilities does not abate the same within the
period fixed in said order, the building, structure, premises or facilities shall be
ordered closed by the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative
notwithstanding any permit clearance or certificate earlier issued by the local
authorities.

 Any building or structure assessed and declared by the chief, BFP or his/her duly
authorized representative as a firetrap on account of the gravity or palpability of
the violation or is causing clear and present imminent fire danger to adjoining
establishments and habitations shall be declared a public nuisance, as defined
in the Civil Code of the Philippines in a notice to be issued to the owner,
administrator, occupant or other person responsible for the condition of the
building, structure and their premises or facilities.

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 126

  If the assessed value of the nuisance or the amount to be spent in abating the
same is not more than One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00), the owner,
administrator or occupant thereof shall abate the hazard within fifteen (15) days,
or if the assessed value is more than One hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00),
within thirty (30) days from receipt of the order declaring said building or
structure a public nuisance; otherwise, the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized
representative shall forthwith cause its summary abatement.

 Failure to comply within five (5) days from the receipt of the notice shall cause
the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative to put up a sign in front
of the building or structure, at or near the entrance of such premises, notifying
the public that such building or structure is a "FIRETRAP", which shall remain
until the owner, administrator, occupant or other person responsible for the
condition of the building, structure and their premises or facilities abate the same
within the specified period.

 Summary abatement as used herein shall mean all corrective measures

undertaken to abate hazards which shall include, but not limited to remodeling,
repairing, strengthening, reconstructing, removal and demolition, either partial
or total, of the building or structure. The expenses incurred by the government
for such summary abatement shall be borne by the owner, administrator or
occupant. These expenses shall constitute a prior lien upon such property.

Enforcement of the Lien

 If the owner, administrator or occupant fails to reimburse the government of the

expenses incurred in the summary abatement within ninety (90) days from the
completion of such abatement, the building or structure shall be sold at public
auction in accordance with existing laws and rules. No property subject of lien
under Section 9 hereof, may be sold at a price lower than the abatement expenses
incurred by the government. The property shall be forfeited in favor of the
government if the highest bid is not at least equal to the abatement expenses
(Section 10).

Penalties

(1) Against the private individual:

(a) Administrative fine

 Any person who violates any provision of the Fire Code or any of the rules and
regulations promulgated under this Act shall be penalized by an administrative
fine of not exceeding Fifty thousand (P50,000.00) pesos or in the proper case, by
stoppage of operations or by closure of such buildings, structures and their
premises or facilities which do not comply with the requirements or by both such
administrative fine and closure/stoppage of operation to be imposed by the Chief,
BFP.

 Provided, That the payment of the fine, stoppage of operations and/or closure of
such buildings, structures, and their premises or facilities shall not absolve the
violator from correcting the deficiency or abating the fire hazard. The decision of
the Chief, BFP, under this subsection, may be appealed to the Secretary of the
Interior and Local Government. Unless ordered by the Secretary of the Interior
and Local Government the appeal shall not stay the execution of the order of the
Chief, BFP. The decision of the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government
shall be final and executory.

(b) Punitive

 In case of willful failure to correct the deficiency or abate the fire hazard as
provided in the preceding subsection, the violator shall, upon conviction, be

Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 127

 punished by imprisonment of not less than six (6) months nor more than six (6)
years, or by a fine of not more than One hundred thousand (P100,000.00) pesos
or both such fine and imprisonment; Provided, however, that in case of a
corporation, firm, partnership or association, the fine and/or imprisonment shall
be imposed upon its officials responsible for such violation, and in case the guilty
party is an alien, in addition to the penalties herein prescribed, he shall
immediately be deported; Provided, finally, that were the violation is attended by
injury, loss of life and/or damage to property, the violator shall be proceeded
against under the applicable provisions of the Revised Penal Code.

 Any person who, without authority, maliciously removes the sign that a building
or structure is a fire hazard/firetrap placed by the authorized person in this Code
shall be liable for imprisonment for thirty (30) days or a fine not exceeding One
hundred thousand pesos (P100,000.00) or both in the discretion of the court.

 Any person, who disobeys the lawful order of the fire ground commander during
a firefighting operation shall be penalized with imprisonment of one (1) day to
thirty (30) days and a fine of five thousand pesos (P5,000.00).

(2) Against the public officer/employee

(a) Administrative

 The following acts or omissions shall render the public officer/employee in

charge of the enforcement of this Code, its implementing rules and
regulation and other pertinent laws, administratively liable, and shall be
punished by reprimand, suspension or removal in the discretion of the
disciplining authority, depending on the gravity of the offense and without
prejudice to the provisions of other applicable laws:

(1) Unjustified failure of the public officer/employee to conduct inspection of

buildings or structures at least once a year;

(2) Deliberate failure to put up a sign in front of the building or structure

within his/her area of responsibility found to be violating this Code, its
implementing rules and regulations and other pertinent laws, that the same
is a "FIRE HAZARD" or a "FIRETRAP";

(3) Endorsing to the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized representative for
the certification, or submitting a report that the building or structure complies
with the standards set by this Code, its implementing rules or regulations or
other pertinent laws when the same is contrary to fact;

(4) Issuance or renewal of occupancy or business permit without the fire safety
inspection certificate issued by the Chief, BFP or his/her duly authorized
representative;

(5) Failure to cancel the occupancy or business permit after the owner,
administrator, occupant or other person responsible for the condition of the
building, structure and other premises failed to comply with the notice/order
for compliance with the standards set by this Code, its implementing rules
and regulations and other pertinent laws, within the specified period;

(6) Failure to abate a public nuisance within fifteen (15) days after the owner,
administrator, occupant or other responsible person failed to abate the same
within the period contained in the notice to abate;

(7) Abusing his/her authority in the performance of his/her duty through acts
of corruption and other unethical practices; or

(8) Other willful impropriety or gross negligence in the performance of his/her

duty as provided in this act or it’s implementing rules and regulations.

(b) Punitive

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  In the case of willful violation involving the abovementioned acts or
omissions enumerated under Section 11 subparagraph 2(A) the public
officer/employees shall, upon conviction, be punished by imprisonment of
not less than six (6) months nor more than six (6) years or by a fine of not
more than One hundred thousand (P100,000.00) or both such fine and
imprisonment: Provided, That where the violation is attended by injury,
loss of life and/or property, the violator shall be proceeded against under
the applicable provisions of the Revised Penal Code.

Appropriation and Sources of Income

(a) To support the manpower, infrastructure and equipment needs of the fire
service of the BFP, such amount as may be necessary to attain the objectives of
the Fire Code shall be appropriated and included in the annual appropriation of
the BFP.

(b) To partially provide for the funding of the fire service the following taxes and
fees which shall accrue to the General Fund of the National Government, are
hereby imposed (Section 12)

(1) Fees to be charged for the issuance of certificates, permits and licenses
as provided for in Section 7 (a) hereof;

(2) One-tenth of one per centum (0.1%) of the verified estimated value of
buildings or structures to be erected, from the owner thereof, but
not to exceed fifty thousand (P50,000.00) pesos, one half to be paid
prior to the issuance of the building permit, and the balance, after
final inspection and prior to the issuance of the use and occupancy
permit;

(3) One-hundredth of one per centum (0.10%) of the assessed value of

buildings or structures annually payable upon payment of the real
estate tax, except on structures used as single family dwellings;

(4) Two per centum (2%) of all premiums, excluding re-insurance premiums
for the sale of fire, earthquake and explosion hazard insurance
collected by companies, persons or agents licensed to sell such
insurances in the Philippines;

(5) Two per centum (2%) of gross sales of companies, persons or agents
selling firefighting equipment, appliances or devices, including
hazard detection and warning systems; and

(6) Two per centum (2%) of the service fees received from fire, earthquake,
and explosion hazard reinsurance surveys and post loss service of
insurance adjustment companies doing business in the Philippines
directly through agents.

Collection of Taxes, Fees and Fines

 All taxes, fees and fines provided in this Code, shall be collected by the
BFP. Provided, That twenty percent (20%) of such collection shall be set
aside and retained for use by the city or municipal government concerned,
which shall appropriate the same exclusive for the use of the operation
and maintenance of its local fire station, including the construction and
repair of fire station: Provided, further, That the remaining eighty (80%)

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 shall be remitted to the National Treasury under a trust fund assigned for
the modernization of the BFP. ( Section 13)

Assessment of Fire Code Taxes, Fees and Fines

 The assessment of fire code taxes, fees and fines is vested upon the BFP.
The BFP shall, subject to the approval of the DILG, prescribe the
procedural rules for such purpose. (Section 13-A).

Collection and Assessment of Local Taxes, Fees and Fines

 The collection and assessment of taxes, fees and fines as prescribed in the
Local Government Code, except those contained in this Code, shall be
function of the concerned local government units (Section 13-B).

Use of Income Generated from the Enforcement of the Fire Code

The Chief, BFP is authorized, subject to the approval of the Secretary of

the Interior and Local Government, to use the income generated under the Fire
Code for procurement of fire protection and firefighting investigation, rescue,
paramedics, supplies and materials, and related technical services necessary for
the fire service and the improvement of facilities of the Bureau of Fire Protection
and abatement of fire hazards.

The BFP shall determine the optimal number of equipment, including, but
not limited to, fire trucks and fire hydrants, required by every local government
unit for the proper delivery of fire protection services in its jurisdiction (Section
13-C).

In the procurement of firefighting and investigation supplies and

materials, the Bureau of Product Standards of the Department of Trade and
Industry shall evaluate, determine and certify if the supply to procured conforms
to the product standards fixed by the BFP. For this purpose, the BFP shall submit
to the Bureau of Product Standards a detailed set of product standards that must
be complied with in the procurement of firefighting and investigation supplies
and materials within six (6) months from the effectivity of this act.

Monitoring the Implementation of the Fire Code and the Amount of the Fees
Collected

 The Chief, BFP shall, within six (6) month from the effectivity of this Code, submit
to the Secretary of the Interior and Local Government for his/her approval, a
management tool or mechanism that would ensure effective monitoring of the
enforcement of the Fire Code to include the amount of Fire Code fees collected
(Section 13-D)

Implementation Rules and Regulations

 Within sixty (60) days from the effectivity of this Act, the Secretary of the Interior
and Local Government shall issue the rules and regulations for its effective
implementation. (Section 14)

Repealing Clause

 Presidential Decree No. 1185 is hereby repealed. All laws, presidential decrees,
letters of instructions, executive orders, rules and regulations insofar as they are
inconsistent with this Act, are hereby repealed or amended as the case may be.
(Section 15)

Separability Clause

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  In case any provision of this Act or any portion thereof is declared
unconstitutional by a competent court, other provisions shall not be affected
thereby. (Section 16)

Effectivity

 This Act shall take effect fifteen (15) days after its publication in the Official
Gazette or in two (2) national newspapers of general circulation. (Section 17)
Approved: December 19, 2008

BUREAU OF FIRE PROTECTION STANDARD

OPERATING PROCEDURE
(BFP-SOP) NUMBER: IID 2008-01
INITIAL ACTIONS DURING FIRE ALARM

Section 1. –
 Upon the notification of a fire call or fire incident, the duty Fire Arson
Investigator (FAI)
a. must have jurisdiction
b. mandatory to immediately respond at the soonest possible time.
c. conduct of initial inquiry through interview and elicitation from all available
witnesses

Section 2.
 As soon as the area of origin or the focal point of the fire is ascertained, the FAI
shall
a. Make necessary coordination with BFP firefighting personnel to include the
volunteer fire brigades (VFB) to exert diligent and careful efforts in the conduct
of fire suppression operation in the identified AREA OF ORIGIN to preserve the
EVIDENTIAL VALUE and the focal point of the fire that might be destroyed due
to excessive flooding in the area.

Section 3.
 The fire scene should be well protected and secured.
a. Coordination with the local police units
b. or barangay personnel

Section 4.
 In the event that the FAI discovered SUSPECTED HAZARDOUS MATERIALS /
suspected illegal or regulated chemicals
a. during the conduct of investigation of the burned premises, the circumstances
shall be immediately reported to proper office
 BFP Hazardous Materials Office,
 or other law enforcement agency.

Section 5.
 Once the Fire Ground Commander (FGC) declared “FIRE OUT”
a. the FAI shall
 take cognizance the responsibilities of PROTECTING and SECURING the
whole fire scene by sealing / closing the perimeter with barricade tape
(Fire Lines).
 Posting of uniformed BFP personnel for security purposes may also be
carry out as deemed necessary.

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IV. DUTIES OF THE FIRE ARSON INVESTIGATOR
(Mandatory duties of the Fire Arson Investigators}

Section 1.
 Systematic, scientific examinations and visual reconstruction of the fire scene -
includes the COMPLETE DOCUMENTATION AND PROPER RECORDING of the
fire area by the use of photography, diagrammatic sketch and notes.
 The diagrammatic sketch should clearly depict the FIRE SCENE, its AREA /
POINT OF ORIGIN, AREA MEASUREMENTS, LOCATION OF EVIDENCE and
other important details.

Section 2.
 Conduct interview to all witnesses.
a. The interview should be done in QUESTION AND ANSWER FORM
b. shall be done under oath preferably by a person of authority whenever
available,
c. All witnesses to be conducted with a formal interview shall be FORMALLY
INVITED to the fire station / investigation office concerned in a form of
INVITATION LETTER
Note: to be administered by the concerned BFP officer with the rank of INSPECTOR
and above. The authority of a BFP officer to administer oath is pursuant to the
provisions of Chapter III, Section 50 of R.A. 6975.

Section 3.
 Conduct THOROUGH ANALYSIS of the fire scene in order to identify the
IGNITION SOURCE

Section 4.
 Identify, recognize and collect physical evidence found at the fire scene that
have PROBATIVE VALUE on fire cause determination.
Probativeness:
 Evidence must logically tend to prove the proposition for which it is offered.
 Probativeness is a matter of sense, logic, and experience.
 The evidence must not make the proposition substantial more likely than not
but not only somewhat more likely than not.
.
Section 5.
 On the first phase of the investigation, the FAI shall prepare the LISTING OF
DOCUMENTS needed to be accomplished / submitted by the fire victim/s,
building occupant/s and other parties affected by fire.
The required documents are as follows

1. Affidavit of Loss pertaining to Fire Damage (itemized and duly notarized)

2. Sworn statement of loss submitted to insurance adjusters / companies
3. Latest complete inventory of stocks prior to the fire incident
4. Complete inventory of salvaged items after the fire incident
5. Complete copies of insurance policies to include co-insurances
6. Income Tax Return (ITR) for the last three (3) years
7. Financial statements for the last three (3) years
8. Balance sheets for the last three (3) years
9. Mayor’s permit and Business License
10. Occupancy permit
11. Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) registration
12. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) registration
13. Latest Fire Safety Inspection Certificate (FSIC)
14. Complete list of employees
15. Approved Floor, Building and Electrical Plans
16. Copy of lease contract agreement
17. Land title / tax declaration

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Section 5.1
 The above listed documents to be secured to the fire victim will vary based on
the TYPE OF UCCUPANCY or the INVOLVED STRUCTURE gutted by fire. Any
other documents that may be irrelevant based on type of occupancy may not be
required.
 In addition, the FAI are also AUTHORIZE TO REQUIRE any other pertinent
documents, materials and items to the fire victims as determined by the FAI
concerned, that will give support to the conduct of investigation.

Section 6 – The FAI must inform

 all concerned persons, occupants and managements of the burned premises
 that the fire scene is RESTRICTED TO ENTRY to any person until the
investigation being conducted by the BFP at the burned premises is
COMPLETED and / or TERMINATED.
 Any REMOVAL, RETRIEVAL of items stored at the scene of the fire,
DEMOLITION, RECONSTRUCTION and REHABILITATION of the fire scene is
only allowed upon securing approval to the investigating body through
submission of a formal written request by the fire victim. The said formal
written request should contain specific purpose.

Section 7.
 In such event that death results from a fire incident (FATAL FIRES), the
concerned FAI shall immediately sought the assistance of the Philippine
National Police – Scene Of the Crime Operation (PNP – SOCO), or any other
legal / recognized group for lifting and autopsy of the cadaver / body found at
the fire / crime scene.

Section 8.
 All conduct of follow-up investigation to the fire incident should be covered with
appropriate Letter / Mission Order
 signed by the C,IIOs
 Note by respective BFP Head of Office.

 MO number : series of MO Number per station

AUTHORITY : Section 50, Rule VIII, IRR of 6975 (DILG Act of 1990) and BFP SOP Nr.
IID 2008 -02: Comprehensive Fire and Arson Investigation and Filing of Criminal
Complaint Procedures

(To PROCEED TO, PURPOSE, DURATION, and REMARK

Section 9.
 All FAI are also directed and mandated to perform any other task as deemed
essential to the development of case build-up and the exhaustive investigation
being conducted.

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LEVEL OF AUTHORITY TO CONDUCT INVESTIGATION

 will be based on the degree or the amount and value of the total (aggregated)
damages incurred in a certain fire incident. These levels of authority are as
follows:

1. Municipal Fire Marshal – (MFM) Municipal Limit, LEVEL 1 – The municipal level,
through its MUNICIPAL INVESTIGATION AND INTELLIGENCE UNIT (MIIU) shall have
the full responsibility and power to investigate fire incidents with a total amount of
damage not exceeding to Twenty Million Pesos (Php 20,000,000.00).

2. City Fire Marshal (CFM) – City Limit, LEVEL 2 – The city level, through its CITY
INVESTIGATION AND INTELLIGENCE SECTION (CIIS) shall have the full
responsibility and power to investigate fire incidents with a total amount of damage not
exceeding to Thirty Million Pesos (Php 30,000,000.00).

3. District Fire Marshal – District Limit, LEVEL 3 – The district level, through its
DISTRICT INVESTIGATION AND INTELLIGENCE BRANCH (DIIB) shall have the full
responsibility and power to investigate fire incidents with a total damages amounting to
above Thirty Million Pesos (Php 30,000,000.00), but not exceeding to Forty Million Pesos
(Php 40,000,000.00). DIIB operatives can assume the conduct of investigation on fire
incidents with damages amounting to more than 20 Million Pesos in Municipal Levels
only within their respective jurisdictions.

4. Provincial Fire Marshal – Provincial Limit, LEVEL 3 – The provincial level, through
its PROVINCIAL INVESTIGATION AND INTELLIGENCE BRANCH (PIIB) shall have the
full responsibility and power to investigate fire incidents with a total damages
amounting to above Thirty Million Pesos (Php 30,000,000.00), but not exceeding to Forty
Million Pesos (Php 40,000,000.00). PIIB operatives can assume the conduct of
investigation on fire incidents with damages amounting to more than 20 Million Pesos
in Municipal Levels only within their respective jurisdictions.

5 Regional Director for Fire Protection – Regional Limit, LEVEL 4 – The regional
director for fire protection level, through its REGIONAL INVESTIGATION AND
INTELLIGENCE BRANCH (RIIB) shall have the full responsibility and power to
investigate fire incidents with a total damages amounting to above Forty Million Pesos
(Php 40,000,000.00), but not exceeding to Sixty Million Pesos (Php 60,000,000.00).

6. Chief, Bureau of Fire Protection – National, LEVEL 5 – The Chief, Bureau of Fire
Protection, through the office of the INVESTIGATION AND INTELLIGENCE DIVISION
– BFP National Headquarters (IID) shall have the full responsibility and power to
investigate fire incidents with a total damages amounting to above Sixty Million Pesos
(Php 60,000,000.00).

SPECIAL PROVISIONS ON CHAPTER VI OF THIS SOP:

Section 1.
 In determination of the total damages incurred in a certain fire incident, the copy
of the AFFIDAVIT OF LOSS (duly notarized and itemized) from the fire victim
shall prevail. The amount of damages to be determined with regards to the Level
of Authority to Conduct Investigation shall be the TOTAL AGGREGATED
DAMAGES or the TOTAL SUM OF DAMAGES of all fire victims of the subject fire
incident.

Section 2.
 The fire damage estimate made by the investigating team / FAI shall not be the
full basis for determination of jurisdictional level of investigation. Be it noted that
Aggregate Damages refers to the total damage of the whole area burned, which
will be used to determine the Level of Authority to Conduct Investigation. In such
circumstances that the damage to property is apparently high or evidently

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 beyond the level of authority of the present investigating units, the case shall be
turned-over to higher investigating unit.

Section 3.
 In circumstances that the property gutted by fire is currently insured in any
insurance company, all copy of the duly accomplished SWORN STATEMENT OF
LOSS submitted to the INSURANCE ADJUSTERS by the fire victim must also
FORM PART and be ATTACHED together with the AFFIDAVIT OF LOSS
submitted by the fire victim to the BFP investigating body.

Section 4.
 In connection with the Level of Authority to Conduct Investigation, the concerned
office handling the investigation of the fire incident shall issue FIRE CLEARANCE
CERTIFICATE (FCC) to the fire victim in lieu of the Final Investigation Report
(FIR), for purposes of insurance claims and for other lawful applications. FCC
can only be issued to fire incidents which is ACCIDENTAL in nature. (Please see
attached two forms of FCC, for insurance and non-insurance purpose – Annex
J)
In such case that any BUILDING PREMISES WITH MULTIPLE OCCUPANCIES were
gutted by fire, the FCC should only be issued to the concerned party where the FIRE
ORIGINATED. Other occupants AFFECTED by the fire incident shall be issued with
FIRE INCIDENT CERTIFICATION (FIC) for their record purposes and other legal use
upon request. (Please see attached two forms of FCC, for insurance and non-insurance
purpose – Annex K)

Section 5.
 Issuance of the copy of the FIR to any concerned party can only be allowed in
circumstances that RELEVANT LEGAL ISSUES and or QUESTIONABLE
MATTERS may arise. The request for FIR should be made in writing by the
requesting party and should be addressed to respective Chiefs of BFP Offices /
Fire Marshals who handled the conduct of investigation on the fire incident for
their appropriate action.

Section 6.
 All written request for a copy of the FIR should COPY FURNISHED the Chief,
Bureau of Fire Protection with attention to the office of the IID – BFP National
Headquarters, for documentary reference.

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 REPUBLIC ACT No. 6975
AN ACT ESTABLISHING THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL POLICE UNDER A REORGANIZED
DEPARTMENT OF THE INTERIOR AND LOCAL GOVERNMENT, AND FOR OTHER
PURPOSES

Section 58. Rank Classification.

For purposes of efficient administration, supervision and control, the rank classification
of the members of the Fire Bureau shall be as follows:

 Director

 Chief Superintendent

 Senior Superintendent

 Superintendent

 Chief Inspector

 Senior Inspector

 Inspector

 Senior Fire Officer IV

 Senior Fire Officer III

 Senior Fire Officer II

 Senior Fire Officer I

 Fire Officer III

 Fire Officer II

 Fire Officer I

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Summary Notes “Fire Technology and Arson Investigation” Page 137