Fire Investigation and Forensic Services
Fire investigation consulting
Becker Support Services provides engineering support for both wildland and structure fire origin and cause investigations and incident reconstruction. Specific areas of expertise include:
Ignition and fire progression analysis
Fire investigators work to determine the origin and cause of fires. This often requires a detailed technical analysis of ignition and fire spread hypotheses. Our experts have an extensive background in both wildland and structure fire dynamics and can help investigators understand how a fire may have started and spread.
Equipment-related fires
The use of outdoor power equipment and all-terrain vehicles (ATVs) can cause wildland fires by hot exhaust surfaces, spark generation, and other mechanisms. Our experts conduct forensic analysis, equipment examination, and laboratory testing to help fire investigators determine whether equipment use could have caused a fire.
Computer fire modeling
Computer fire models can be a powerful tool for investigators testing fire origin and cause hypotheses. However, they are often misused and misunderstood. We provide expertise in the application and interpretation of computer fire models.
Incident timeline analysis and reconstruction
Witness statements and observations are a key component of fire investigation. With the large number of data sources available today (cameras, fire alarm and security system data, social media, etc), it is crucial that investigators have access to a coherent and technically accurate investigative timeline. Our experts are experienced in creating and analyzing complex timelines for incidents of all sizes.
About our Consultants
Trevor Maynard, PhD, PE has over 15 years' experience in engineering, with the majority of his career focused on fire science and fire investigation involving both wildland and structure fires. His has extensive experience in forensic engineering, fire dynamics/modeling, live fire testing, incident reconstruction/timeline analysis, and equipment-related fire investigation. He spent over 10 years working in fire investigation and prevention on behalf of the Federal government (U.S. Forest Service and U.S. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives) and has testified as an expert witness. He holds professional licensure as both a Mechanical and Fire Protection Engineer and has taught courses in fire science and investigation to engineers and investigators around the world.
Please contact us for complete CVs.