fire investigation and analysis

Find out about the work undertaken by DFES Fire Investigation Officers to investigate fires in Western Australia and the types of fires they will attend.

About fire investigations

Knowing how and why fires start is the first crucial step to preventing future fires.  

This information influences activities such as:

  • Removing faulty products from the market.
  • Ensuring safety and construction standards are complied with.
  • Educating the public about fire safety.
  • Ensuring firefighters are informed of developing risks and trained appropriately.

Fire Investigations Officers

Fire Investigation Officers are located throughout Western Australia to support fire officers to establish the origin and cause of all fires attended by DFES.

If a fire is identified as suspicious or deliberate, the Western Australia Police Force Arson Squad will investigate, apprehend and prosecute those responsible.

Role of the Fire Investigations Officers

Fires investigated by Fire Investigation Officers

DFES Fire Investigation Officers will attend a fire that:

  • Has an unknown cause;
  • Is suspicious in nature;
  • Involves a fatality;
  • Involves life threatening injuries;
  • Is politically sensitive;
  • Damages significant infrastructure; and
  • Is a significant accidental fire.

How to stay informed

To report suspicious persons or deliberate lighting of fires call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000.

For more information about arson contact:

More Information

About arson

Arson is willful, unlawful intent associated with deliberate lighting. Find out about the facts and what motivates an arsonist.

Learn more

Reporting arson

Find out how you can help prevent arson, including report suspicious behaviour online, who to call and what details to provide.

Learn more

Arson attacks on business premises

Find out how arson can affect your business and steps you and your employees can take to prevent it.

Learn more

Arson attacks at schools

Help reduce fires in schools by becoming active in your local School Watch program.

Learn more

Arson attacks on vacant buildings

Empty and unsecured buildings are a prime target for the vandal or arsonists. Find out how you can secure your building from an arson attack.

Learn more