What is the primary role of witness information in a fire investigation?

The primary role of witness information in a fire investigation is to understand the sequence of events leading to the fire. Witnesses can provide crucial insights into what they observed before, during, and after the fire incident. Their accounts can help investigators piece together the timeline of activities, identify key factors contributing to the fire's ignition, and understand the actions taken by individuals in the vicinity.

Witness statements may reveal how the fire started, the behavior of people involved, and any potential safety practices that were or were not followed. This contextual information is essential for investigators to establish the cause of the fire and to understand the dynamics that may have influenced the fire's development.

While witness information can be related to other aspects of a fire investigation, such as assessing damage or compliance with building codes, its primary utility lies in clarifying the events that unfolded. This understanding is critical for drawing conclusions about the fire's origin and contributing factors, which are fundamental to a thorough fire investigation.