Investigations
Once a fire has been distinguished, a fire investigation will occur to determine the origin and cause of the fire. When the cause has been determined, one of four categories is chosen: incendiary (intentional), accidental (i.e. candle, cooking fire), natural (i.e. weather-related / lightening), and undetermined. Depending on which category the fire falls into determines what actions are taken by Fire Investigators.
Each fire is studied to determine if there is a possibility of reoccurrence and what is needed to avoid that happening, for example: additional information provided to the public to reduce the possible risk of reoccurrence.
Currently, Jacksonville Fire & Emergency Services has three qualified fire investigators that are overseen by the Fire Marshal, Brian Kelly.