Download - South Carolina Fire Academy

Inspection & Investigation Curriculum
2139 INTRODUCTION TO FIRE INSPECTION PRINCIPLES AND PRACTICES
This three-day NFA based course is designed for those with the primary job responsibility of conducting fire
and life safety inspections. The course provides a broad framework for the individual who has little or no experience
in conducting fire inspections. It helps new inspectors understand the knowledge and skills required
to conduct inspections and the various steps in the inspection process. Subjects include fire behavior, common
fire hazard recognition, building construction, fire protection systems and actual inspection practices and
procedures. At the completion of the program, the course includes a written examination.
Prerequisite: None
Hours: 24
Fees: $10 (does not include dorm room or meals)
Students: Minimum-15, maximum-30
Registration Cut Off: Registration for this course has a 30 day cut off. All registrations must be received 30
days prior to start of course.
Textbook Information: Students will be provided a copy of the NFA student guide and other handouts, as
required on the first day of class.
Inspection & Investigation
Application Procedure: Students must complete the SCFA Registration Form and submit it to the Resident
Registrar, at least 30 days prior to start of class.
Certificate of Completion: Students achieving a minimum score of 70 on the final examination will be mailed a
certificate.
3213 BASIC FIRE/ARSON INVESTIGATION
This course covers South Carolina law, fire behavior, building construction and fire investigation, point of
origin, accidental and incendiary fire causes, motivation of the fire-setter, fire photography, fire scene sketching,
scene investigation, wildland fires, fatal fires, legal aspects, interviewing and interrogation, evidence collection
and preservation, forensic lab service, incendiary devices, electricity and electrical fires, RICO statutes and
investigative field reports.
Prerequisite: Letter of endorsement from the organization head providing justification for the student to be
included in the program and the benefits afforded the organization when the student complete the course. Included
in the letter should be a description of job duties as they relate to the field of fire investigation. At least
three to five years fire service experience or equivalent related training required. Students should be familiar
with NFPA 921 and NFPA 1033. The SCFA registration form, letters of endorsement from the organization
head and students’ resumes must be on file at least 30 days prior to the start of the course. Background/reference
checks will be utilized to assist in determining student eligibility.
Hours: 80
Students: Min: 18 Max: 30
Fee: Free; student must pay meals and dorm fees.
Note: On-campus delivery only
www.scfa.state.sc.us 51