When conducting a fire investigation, what is one of the first steps?

Securing the scene to prevent contamination is a fundamental first step in a fire investigation. This process involves establishing a perimeter around the fire site to ensure that evidence is preserved and not disturbed by onlookers or other personnel not involved in the investigation. By doing this, investigators can maintain the integrity of the scene, which is crucial for accurately determining the fire's cause and collecting relevant evidence. This initial action also allows for a more systematic approach to gathering data, as it minimizes the risk of losing valuable information that could be altered or destroyed.

Other actions, like interviewing eyewitnesses or assessing community concerns, while important, typically occur after the scene has been secured. Determining the cause of the fire is also a critical aspect of the investigation but requires that the scene be adequately protected and examined first. Thus, securing the scene sets the foundation for all subsequent investigative actions.