Summers Over, Less Fires?

In the summer months fires tend to be a pretty prevalent source of insurance claims. These are usually legit claims, and stem from either brush near the home set ablaze by the intense heat, children attempting to kill small bugs, and lastly just accidental things from more people being outside due to the nice weather. Now you would think that fire investigators would have an easier time in the off season since less people are out grilling and tossing cigarette butts on top of dry mulch, but it actually starts to really peak in the heat of winter. One of the many reasons, is heating. In the winter time in a cold climate, everybody requires heat. I can pretty much guarantee you that any source of heat is susceptible to causing, or starting a fire. That space heater you got basically just overheats a piece of metal a lot by drawing a relatively immense amount of current through it, and then operates "efficiently" by pushing that warm air out with a fan. Sounds dangerous huh?

Basically I'm saying that fire investigations do not really ever seem to slow down for reputable companies. As an insurance company you also need to make sure you are investigating claims that seem odd or are particularly improbable, because there's a good chance it is.

Bill Mahan

Who are Forensic Engineers?

What makes a forensic engineer a forensic engineer? One thing to keep in mind is that forensic engineering is NOT a major, there is not a club, but rather it is a state of experience. To be considered a reputable source for forensic engineering, you generally should have a master's of science is a related engineering field of investigation, and years of on-the-job experience. Generally those two guidelines will appease any courtroom you may find yourself testifying in, with the designation of "expert witness".

So basically, forensic engineers fulfill a small designation of engineers with a thorough education and lots of experience. This is required to ensure that their conclusions are founded in logic and factual knowledge.