Soil core sampling for arson wildfire investigation.

Arson sample collection – Any old paint can will do? Part 2

The training seminar presentation on Forensics Laboratory Analysis and Process which was delivered at Life of a Fire Investigator seminar being hosted by the Fire Investigation Association of Alberta (FIAA) went very well. It was nice to meet those involved in FIAA and have the opportunity to talk with them. …

Burned area of arson wildfire investigation

Arson sample collection – Any old paint can will do? Part 1

As I was preparing my training seminar for a presentation on Forensics Laboratory Analysis and Process to be delivered at Life of a Fire Investigator seminar being hosted by the Fire Investigation Association of Alberta (FIAA), I came across some information on cans for sample collection. I thought it would…

Legal sampling field notes – up for legal scrutiny?

I was testifying several weeks at a trial for a case I have been working on for three years. Most legal cases can drag on for very long periods of time. All cases that I have been on have lasted a minimum of 2 years. While waiting to testify in…

PAHs from wildfires and wildfire smoke

It was not that long ago that a smoky haze was across southern Alberta from fires in Washington State. The haze was caused by wildfires and the winds moved the smoke over Alberta. Wildfires seem to be very common lately with the latest one making the news from California. Wildfires…