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Fatal Fire Investigations: Understanding How the Human Body Burns and What Remains for Investigators at the Fire Scene.

Date & Time: October 23, 2024, 8:30 am – 4:30 pm MST

Location: North West Division Edmonton Police Station, 18440 127st NW, Edmonton, Alberta

Limited Seats Available

Event Overview

This one-day intensive course focuses on the scientific study of how the human body burns in various fire environments, what remains as evidence, and the corresponding investigation techniques. The training is based on over 20 years of experimental research. It covers how the human body burns in different fire settings, the heat-related changes in the body’s soft tissues and bones, and the movements of the body, including limb flexion (pugilistic posture).
Participants will learn what typically survives after a fire and what investigators should look for as evidence of burned remains at fatal fire scenes. The course also includes effective methods for searching and recovering human remains that are considered ‘burned beyond recognition.

Dr Pope

Meet Your Instructor – Dr. Elayne Pope, Ph.D.

Dr. Elayne Pope is a Forensic Anthropologist and the Director of Fatal Fire Forensics. With a Ph.D. from the University of Arkansas, her research has extensively documented how human bodies burn in various environments. She has worked as the Autopsy Supervisor and Forensic Anthropologist at the Tidewater Office of the Chief Medical Examiner and currently provides training and expert consultations.

 

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Certification

  • Participants will receive a Certificate of Attendance
  • For those requiring Continuing Education Credits, completion of an online quiz will be required once the event is over, and a printable certificate of completion will be awarded

What You Will Learn

  • Introduction to how the human body burns as layered soft tissues and burned bones and their characteristics when observed at the fatal fire scene
  • The roles of clothing, body position, fuel types, durations, etc.
  • Burn pattern characteristics of radiant and direct heat exposure, ignitable liquids, and case studies
  • Fatal fire scene investigation protocols of forensic photography mapping and excavation techniques
  • Post-fire alterations to fragile burned human remains from fire suppression tactics, scene overhaul, search efforts, and improper recovery

Who Should Attend

  • Fire investigators
  • Medical examiners and coroners
  • Homicide investigators and law enforcement Crime scene investigators
  • Anyone involved in fatal fire casework

Additional Information

  • Fire Rescue Edmonton

    This event is held in association with the Edmonton Police Department and the Edmonton Fire Department

  • Coffee, snacks, and a catered lunch will be provided to all attendees

Event Fee

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