How to Write a Fire Report

Writing a fire report includes the collection and reporting of descriptions, observations, statements, documentation and opinion related to a fire incident. This report should be completed any time fire control is dispatched. Each part of the fire report should be very detailed. All of this information is necessary when determining if a criminal act has occurred, as in the case of arson. It will also be required in the case of an accident, particularly if the victim files an insurance claim. The more comprehensive the report, the better.

Things You'll Need

• Documentation of fire incident
• Witness statements
• Suspect statements

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Instructions

How to Write a Fire Report

• 1

  The report is worthless without the case number.

  Write the case number and date at the top of the report.

• 2

  All information related to the fire incident should be recorded accurately.

  Write a summary of the fire incident and include all pertinent information: address, dispatch time, start time of the fire (if known), type of building or vehicle, physical characteristics and dimensions, construction of structure (wood, brick,etc.), where the fire began, what was burned, presence of accelerant, method of ignition, weather, who requested the response, presence of a suspect and/or witness, and motive (if known).

• 3

  Lab results are valuable in determining cause of fire.

  Write a summary of the laboratory analysis, stating what testing was conducted, the items analyzed and the results of that analysis.

• 4

  List the witnesses, including their addresses and occupations. Write the statements made by the witnesses followed by the statement made by the suspect.

• 5

  State your opinion as to how the fire started and provide rationale to support your opinion.

• 6

  Arson is against the law.

  List the statute(s) violated, including the penal code identifier, bail and fine. Include an indication as to whether release of the suspect is recommended.