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In this milestone 50th episode, hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens dive into Chapter 5: Basic Fire Science from the 2024 edition of NFPA 921. This episode breaks down foundational fire science concepts that investigators are frequently challenged on in court—covering the definition of fire, energy vs. power, heat flux, modes of heat transfer, minimum ignition energy (MIE), flammable limits, and suppression effects.

Scott and Chasity explain how misunderstandings of fire dynamics, radiant heat, convection, and material properties can lead to incorrect origin-and-cause conclusions—and how defense attorneys exploit these gaps. Using real-world examples, courtroom-style questions, and investigator-friendly analogies, they emphasize treating fire as a process, not just a pattern.

The episode also celebrates 50 episodes, discusses advanced education at Eastern Kentucky University and Oklahoma State University, and answers listener questions on cigarette ignition research. Whether you’re a seasoned investigator, student, or expert witness, this episode reinforces why mastering basic fire science is essential for credible, defensible investigations.

IAAI Annual Conference (Wichita, Kansas) — February 3–5

New Mexico Annual Training Conference — February 23–27

IAAI Evidence Collection Technician (ECT) Class / Practicum (hosted at Orange County Fire Authority – Orange County, CA) — Dates not stated in the episode

CCAI (California Conference of Arson Investigators) — February 23–26

Fire Investigation 1A (Miramar College – San Diego, CA) — March 9–13

Georgia Fire Investigators Association Spring Conference (Cobb / Marietta, Georgia) — March 16–19

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Season 3 kicks off with a timely and critical conversation on site safety assessments and why they are more than just a procedural checkbox—they’re a fundamental part of the fire investigation process. Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens open the new year by reflecting on recent cases, near-misses, and real-world examples that highlight how quickly an investigation can become dangerous when scene hazards aren’t properly assessed, mitigated, and documented. From energized electrical systems in fire-damaged structures to compromised floors, structural instability, soot exposure, and unauthorized occupants, this episode underscores that investigators must actively verify scene safety rather than rely on assumptions or third-party assurances.

The discussion dives into what governing documents actually require, breaking down how NFPA 921, NFPA 1033, and NFPA 1321 address site safety assessments and why the word “shall” matters—especially in court. Scott and Chasity explain how failing to document a safety assessment in your report becomes low-hanging fruit for attorneys, even when the assessment was performed. They also explore the differences between public and private scene control, how safety officers and incident command influence access, and why investigators must continually reassess hazards as conditions change. The episode closes with training opportunities related to investigator safety, a practical explanation of what a white paper is (and how it differs from a technical report), and a challenge for listeners to define SOPs—and distinguish them from SOGs—before the next episode.

Trainings & Conferences Mentioned

Fire Investigation Safety Officer Training

• Mesa, Arizona — February 9–10, 2026
• New Hampton, New York — February 11–12, 2026
• (Future offerings also mentioned in Illinois, April–May 2026; exact dates TBD)

Kansas IAAI Annual Conference

• Wichita — February 3–5, 2026

New Mexico IAAI Annual Training Conference

• Albuquerque — February 23–27, 2026

California Conference of Arson Investigators (CCAI) Training

• California — February 23–26, 2026
  • Scott and Chasity will be teaching at this conference

Georgia Fire Investigators Association – Spring Conference

• Marietta — March 16–19, 2026
  • (Held at Cobb County location)

Scientific Advisory Work Group (SAW Group) – Mock Report Challenge

• Oregon — January 2026
  • Exact dates not specified during the episode

Thank you for listening!

If you enjoyed the episode, give us 5 stars, hit the follow button, and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you are listening in from.

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In this Christmas Eve Embercast, Chasity and Scott slow things down with a short, informal episode focused on listener feedback, community connection, and the continued growth of the fire investigation profession. Rather than a full-length case discussion, this Ember-style episode highlights messages from investigators around the world—including Australia—and explores meaningful conversations sparked by listener questions, critiques, and ideas. Topics include a listener-requested concept for a wildfire investigation roundtable series, advice for investigators preparing for the IAAI CFI certification exam, and a discussion on the difference between studying for a test and conducting real-world research. The episode also addresses a technical terminology correction—“arc” versus “arc site”—and why precision in language matters in both investigations and the courtroom. Chasity and Scott reflect on the importance of collaboration between public and private fire investigators, introduce a new 2025 segment titled “Here’s the Scenario—Figure It Out,” and discuss why NFPA 921 should be viewed as a framework rather than a standalone research document. The Embercast closes with shoutouts to fellow fire investigation podcasts helping move the industry forward and a holiday message to listeners. Full episodes return January 7. 🎄🔥

Thank you for listening!

If you enjoyed the episode, give us 5 stars, hit the follow button, and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you are listening in from.

Follow us on social media!
Instagram: @infocusfire_podcast
LinkedIn: INFOCUS podcast
Facebook: INFOCUS podcast
TikTok: @infocus_podcast