Purpose Statement
- The Analysis tab within the Fire Investigation module allows investigators to document critical scene details, including:
- Observations
- Evidence collection
- Chain of custody
- Electrical panel data
- Ensures accurate, compliant documentation aligned with agency SOPs/SOGs
- Supports thorough and defensible fire investigation reporting
Background Information
- The Analysis tab is a core component of the Fire Investigation module used to capture and organize investigative findings
- Supports both new and existing investigations
- Key use cases include:
- Documenting on-scene observations
- Tracking and managing evidence
- Maintaining chain of custody records
- Recording electrical panel conditions
- Helps ensure:
- Compliance with investigative standards
- Evidence integrity and traceability
- Structured and consistent documentation workflows
Required Permissions
- Fire Investigation Module access
- Create/Edit Investigation permissions
- Evidence management permissions
- Attachment upload permissions (photos/documents)
- Note: Permissions may vary based on agency configuration
Video
Step-by-Step Guide
1. Access the Fire Investigation Module
- Click on the Fire Investigation module from the main navigation
- Select Investigation List to view all investigations
2. Open or Create an Investigation
- To edit an existing investigation:
- Click the Edit (pencil icon)
- To create a new investigation:
- Click the Add button in the upper-right corner
- Click the Add button in the upper-right corner
3. Navigate to the Analysis Tab
- Locate the module stack on the left-hand side
- Click Analysis
4. Document Observations
- Select the Observations section
- Enter detailed scene observations, use template if available
5. Add and Manage Evidence
5.1 Navigate to Evidence
- Navigate to the Evidence section
- Complete required fields according to SOPs/SOGs
5.2 Evidence Items
- Click Add
- Complete required fields according to SOPs/SOGs
- Click Save
5.3 Add Evidence Details
- Add attachments if needed:
- Upload files
- Take photos
- Sign the record
- Click Save
5.4 Internal Evidence Examination
- Click Add
- Enter:
- Investigator name
- Date pulled
- Date examined
- Date returned
- Click Save
5.5 External Evidence Examination
- Click Add
- Enter:
- Examiner name
- Examination date
- Company name and address
- Authorization details (authorized by and dates)
- Click Save
6. Record Chain of Custody
- Navigate to Chain of Custody
- Click Add
- Enter:
- Transfer date
- Transfer time
- Evidence seal number
- Select the appropriate evidence item
- Click Save/Transfer
7. Document Electrical Panel Information
- Navigate to Electrical Panels
- Click Add
- Complete General section:
- Panel location
- Main size
- Type (fuses or circuit breakers)
- Complete Left Bank and Right Bank:
- Amp rating
- Circuit label
- Status (On, Off, Tripped)
- Click Save
Best Practices
- Document observations immediately while on scene
- Follow SOPs/SOGs when entering evidence details
- Attach photos to support findings whenever possible
- Ensure all transfers are recorded for chain of custody
- Verify authorization details for external examinations
- Use consistent naming for evidence items
Troubleshooting & FAQs
1. Why can’t I see the Analysis tab?
- Verify you have Fire Investigation module permissions
2. Why can’t I upload attachments?
- Check upload permissions
- Confirm stable internet connection
3. Why is my evidence not showing in Chain of Custody?
- Ensure the evidence record has been saved
4. Can I edit entries after saving?
- Yes, use the edit option within each section