Training

[capt473]

Our County recently started a county wide investigation unit for cause and determination. We meet four times a year, and need some advise or suggestions on training to keep our group moving forward and motivated. Our group consists of both fire and police agencies. Pleasssse help with any ideas.

Thanks

[LadyCapn]

You don't mention what kind of training you already do have but that may be a place to start. Have one or two in the group take an accredited course if no one already has and then have them do a presentation on a specific subject.
See if you can hold a "controlled arson", kind of like a training burn, but you put it out and then do an actual investigation to determine origin and cause. You can always throw a few loops into that one by including some things to throw them off. Torch an old car and then have them investigate where it started and how. Contact your state Fire Marshal or ATF, and see if they have someone who would be willing to come and speak to your group. There are all kinds of cool things your group can do depending on time, money and committment.

Good Luck!

[ 11-21-2001: Message edited by: LadyCapn ]

[TAO212]

Another thing you can do is contact the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, and Firearms. They have resources and materials to help you. Let me know how it goes.

Todd Overmyer
Fire Investigator
TAO212@aol.com

[eyecue]

Get the word out that you are doing this! Start a newletter! Elect officers! Gather information on trends that are occuring in your area. Discuss fire investigations that are ongoing. Invite state, county and local orgs to your meetings. Hold the meetings at different locations throughout the year! Have a training seminar that is big once a year. Discuss small training tips during your meets. Good luck!!!