Fire investigation is a crucial part of the rescue services and police work in determining the causes of fires, improving safety, and preventing future incidents. Although both authorities investigate fires, their roles and objectives differ.

Fire Investigation by Rescue Services

Fire investigation conducted by rescue services is based on the Rescue Act (§41). Its objectives are to:

  • prevent similar accidents
  • limit damage
  • develop rescue operations and preparedness

In rescue service fire investigations

  • the cause of ignition is assessed
  • factors affecting fire spread are examined
  • the extent of damage and course of rescue operations are evaluated
  • information is documented in the rescue service's action register (PRONTO)

The extent of the investigation is primarily determined by the seriousness of the consequences of the fire. Minor fires may only require an expert assessment, while serious cases involve a more comprehensive investigation.

Part of accident investigations

Fire investigations by rescue departments are part of the system of accident investigations in Finland. In addition to rescue departments, the authorities carrying out fire investigations comprise the police, the Safety Investigation Authority  (Otkes) and the Finnish Safety and Chemicals Agency (Tukes). Insurance companies and Divisions of Occupational Safety and Health of Regional State Administrative Agencies may also be involved in investigations.

Fire investigations carried out by the rescue authorities differ from fire cause investigations and pre-trial investigations conducted by the police in terms of their focus. Investigations carried out by the rescue authorities do not entail examining responsibility or guilt. The rescue authorities are obliged to report the matter to the police if there are reasons to suspect a criminal offence.

The Safety Investigation Authority is tasked with investigating all major accidents and related incidents regardless of their nature as well as all aviation, maritime and rail accidents and incidents.

Obligation to Notify the Police

If the rescue authority suspects that the fire was caused intentionally or negligently, the matter must be reported to the police. Violations of fire and personal safety regulations must also be reported.

Police Fire Cause Investigation

The police are responsible for criminal investigations in fires where a crime is suspected or where:

  • a person has died
  • serious personal injury has occurred
  • significant property damage has occurred

The police investigation is based on the Police Act (872/2011) and aims to determine criminal liability. The police may use technical investigation, interviews, and expert statements.

Cooperation Between Rescue Services and Police

Rescue services and police work closely together in fire investigations. Rescue services provide technical and situational information that the police can use in criminal investigations. Communication often emphasizes that "the rescue services and police are investigating the matter together."

Fire investigation supports:

  • development of safety culture
  • risk management and prevention
  • training and development of rescue service practices
  • inter-agency cooperation and information sharing

Fire Investigation Process

Fire investigation in rescue services proceeds step-by-step, and its scope depends on the severity and circumstances of the fire. Below is a general description of the process:

1. On-Site Assessment

  • Rescue personnel make an initial assessment of the fire's cause and conditions during the rescue operation.

2. Documentation

  • All observations, actions, and technical data are recorded in the rescue service's information systems (e.g., PRONTO).

3. Initiation of Fire Investigation

  • If the cause of the fire is not obvious or the case is serious, the rescue department initiates a formal investigation.

4. Determining Cause and Spread. The investigation clarifies:

  • ignition point and cause
  • fire progression and spread factors
  • behavior of structures and materials.

5. Cooperation with Police

  • If a crime or serious negligence is suspected, the rescue department informs the police, who may start a parallel criminal investigation.

6. Reporting and Use of Information. Investigation results are documented and used for:

  • prevention
  • training
  • inter-agency cooperation
  • legislative development.

Frequently Asked Questions About Fire Investigation

Who conducts the fire investigation?

Rescue services conduct technical fire investigations. Police investigate criminal cases.

Can the results of the investigation be accessed?

Yes, rescue service reports are generally public. Requests should be directed to the relevant rescue department.

How does fire investigation improve safety?

It helps identify risk factors and develop preventive measures.

What happens if the fire was deliberately set?

Rescue services notify the police, who initiate a criminal investigation.

Can citizens participate in the investigation?

Citizens can provide observations and information to authorities, but the actual investigation is conducted by officials.