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Fire investigations

Why do we investigate fires?

Understanding why a fire started is important as it can help prevent further incidents. It is particularly important when people have been hurt or even have died due to a fire. Whenever there is an inquest, we will provide an in depth report into our investigation.
 
Often fires are accidental and the investigation will highlight issues the public needs to be aware of. For example ensuring cigarettes are fully put out or switching off electrical appliances when not in use at home. Some of these cases can be found in the Heads up website.
 
Occasionally fires are started deliberately and we may hand over information to Sussex Police to investigate whether a crime has been committed. 

What happens to investigation reports?

The reports are not routinely published. They are provided to the parties involved in the fire - for example the occupants of the house, the owners of a business, or as stated earlier a Coroner or the Police.  Key information from these reports may also be shared with those persons who may be in a position to help prevent similar fires occurring in the future.