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FI-310, Wildland Fire Investigation: Case Development, 2011

FI-310 Decorative banner. Photos representing wildland fire investigation operations. Two inset photos on a background of burning ambers. Inset 1 is an image of burned bicycles with burned out house in background. Inset two shows three fire inspectors looking at burned area of a fire.

 

Description

This course provides an introduction into the law enforcement case development of major wildland arson, including serial arson. Students are instructed in strategies and tactics to combat serial wildland arson and work in groups to develop a case plan and presentation based on an actual wildland arson case. Course includes extensive pre-course work reading, exercises, and a test. Due to the sensitive nature of the materials in this course, the course is maintained by the Wildland Fire Investigation Subcommittee. See Roster for contact information at /committees/wildland-fire-investigation-subcommittee.

Objectives

  • Demonstrate a comprehensive knowledge of administrative and management functions related to the investigation of complex wildland fire cases.
  • Given a case file, the student will use his or her knowledge of advanced investigation methodology to analyze the data and properly identify any strengths and weaknesses associated with the case; determine necessary follow-up actions; and make assignments based on the analysis.
  • Review existing case file information and develop an investigative strategy that includes proper staffing and organizational structure; a written investigation plan; and an Incident Action Plan.
  • Identify and apply specific investigative strategies and administrative functions associated with the management of a complex serial arson investigation team or task force.
  • Prepare, collect, organize and disseminate all relevant investigative data.

Target Group

Personnel desiring to be qualified as wildland fire investigation team members (INTM).

Prerequisite Qualifications and Training

  • Qualified as wildland fire investigator (INVF).
  • Satisfactory completion of pre-selection assessment.
  • Satisfactory completion of pre-course work.

Session Offerings

Sessions of this course may be available in the NWCG Wildland Fire Learning Portal (WFLP). Enrollment requires an account. Log on as a guest to search for session offerings of this course and to view other public content. To search for a specific course, use the FIND LEARNING menu at the top of the page, then select UPCOMING COURSES. To view Geographic Area training schedules, select the specific GEOGRAPHIC AREA information using the drop-down menu at the top of the page. Contact your local Training Officer for more information about local course sessions.

 

Delivery

FI-310 is available as classroom instructor-led training.

Course Components and Hours to Complete

Course Component Course Time
Pre-selection assessment 2
Pre-course work 13
Online training N/A
Instructor-led training 36
Total Hours 51

Course Level

Regional, state, or area

Minimum Instructor Qualifications

The lead and instructors must be qualified as wildland fire investigator (INVF) and have successfully completed FI-310, Wildland Fire Investigation: Case Development.

See NWCG Standards for Course Delivery, PMS 901-1, Instructor Standards for more information.

Functional Area: Prevention and Investigation

Primary Committee: Communication Education and Prevention Committee

Steward: Wildland Fire Investigation Subcommittee

Required for: INVL

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WFSTAR 2023 Year in Review and 2024 Core Component Module Packages Available

Date: March 6, 2024
Contact: Joe Schindel 

The 2023 Fire Year in Review module and 2024 Core Component Module Packages for RT-130, Wildland Fire Safety Training Annual Refresher (WFSTAR) are now available on the NWCG website. The 2024 Core Component Module Package provides all content needed to deliver RT-130.

 

References:

WFSTAR 2023 Fire Year in Review module

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Contact: NWCG

The NWCG Executive Board is privileged to share with you the 2024 NWCG Executive Board Annual Letter. As we look into the future and navigate an incredibly complex and dynamic environment, we must remain focused on our mission while actively engaging in national conversations regarding numerous wildland fire initiatives. In 2024, we prioritize building upon our successes and committing to continuous improvement. Key priorities and considerations for this year include: 

  • Determining Core Workload
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References:

2024 NWCG Executive Board Annual Letter

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NWCG welcomes the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) as an associate member.

“As wildfires become larger and more frequent, NASA is working to apply our scientific and technological knowledge toward this national challenge, and integral to our approach is forging collaborative partnerships,” said NASA Deputy Administrator Pam Melroy. 

 

References:

NASA News Release

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