When must the Office of Fire Investigation be called?

The requirement to call the Office of Fire Investigation for any fire in a place of worship is rooted in the additional sensitivities and complexities surrounding such locations. Fires in places of worship often involve not only the immediate threat to life and property but also significant community and cultural implications. These sites frequently house historical artifacts and provide essential community functions, intensifying the need for thorough investigations to determine origin and cause.

Calling the Office of Fire Investigation in these situations enables a more specialized approach to inquiry, ensuring that all aspects, including potential criminal activity or negligence, are investigated thoroughly. Additionally, there may be legal or insurance implications that necessitate a formal investigation in these settings, reinforcing the importance of calling for specialized resources whenever a fire occurs in a place of worship.

This approach helps maintain public trust and safety, as it highlights the seriousness with which such incidents are treated.