Occupation information for Fire Inspectors and Investigators District Of Columbia

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Typical education needed for entry: Postsecondary certificate

Typical work experience needed for a job in this occupation: 5 years or more work experience

Typical on-the-job training once you have a job in this occupation: 1 to 12 months on-the-job training

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• Prepare and maintain reports of investigation results, and records of convicted arsonists and arson suspects.
• Testify in court cases involving fires, suspected arson, and false alarms.
• Package collected pieces of evidence in securely closed containers, such as bags, crates, or boxes, to protect them.
• Conduct inspections and acceptance testing of newly installed fire protection systems.
• Analyze evidence and other information to determine probable cause of fire or explosion.
• Subpoena and interview witnesses, property owners, and building occupants to obtain information and sworn testimony.
• Photograph damage and evidence related to causes of fires or explosions to document investigation findings.
• Examine fire sites and collect evidence such as glass, metal fragments, charred wood, and accelerant residue for use in determining the cause of a fire.
• Inspect buildings to locate hazardous conditions and fire code violations, such as accumulations of combustible material, electrical wiring problems, and inadequate or non-functional fire exits.
• Instruct children about the dangers of fire.

Tools:

• Fire extinguishers
• Fire suppression system
• Levels
• Screwdrivers
• Tablet computers

Technology:

• Analytical or scientific software
• Data base user interface and query software
• Electronic mail software
• Human resources software
• Internet browser software

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