Fire inspectors examine buildings to detect fire hazards and ensure that federal, state, and local fire codes are met. Fire investigators determine the origin and cause of fires and explosions.
Duties
Fire inspectors typically do the following:
Search for fire hazards
Ensure that buildings comply with fire codes
Test fire alarms, sprinklers, and other fire protection equipment
Inspect gasoline storage tanks and air compressors
Review emergency evacuation plans
Conduct followup visits to make sure that infractions do not recur
Review building plans with developers
Conduct fire and safety education programs
Maintain fire inspection files that may be used in a court of law
Administer burn permits and monitor controlled burns
Fire investigators typically do the following:
Collect and analyze evidence from scenes of fires and explosions
Interview witnesses
Reconstruct the scene of a fire or arson
Send evidence to laboratories to be tested for fingerprints or accelerants
Analyze information with chemists, engineers, and attorneys
Document evidence by taking photographs and creating diagrams
Determine the origin and cause of a fire
Keep detailed records and protect evidence for use in a court of law
Testify in civil and criminal legal proceedings
Exercise police powers, such as the power of arrest, and carry a weapon
Forest fire inspectorsand prevention specialists assess fire hazards in both public and residential areas. They look for fire code infractions and for conditions that pose a wildfire risk. They also recommend ways to reduce fire hazards. During patrols, they enforce fire regulations and report fire conditions to their central command center.