Fire Investigator

The Division of Fire Safety developed the original Fire Investigator course and certification program in 1986 because of the devastating effects of fire and arson, along with the need for a comprehensive training program for individuals committed to determining fire cause. The current course, which is based on NFPA 1033, Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Investigator and Division-approved curriculum, was designed to provide education in fire investigation, with various opportunities to combine experience with training obtained during the course. The course assists students with completing the relevant classroom exercises, practical skills, and courtroom testimony, as well as preparing them to take the state Fire Investigator Certification Examination.

This 80-hour course is offered three times a year or as resources permit. The didactic portion of the course is delivered in a hybrid style. All practical skills training will be delivered in-seat. Students are required to complete the hybrid coursework to be eligible to sit for the practical skills training. Successful completion of the course and practical skills training are required for eligibility to take the division’s Fire Investigator Certification Examination. For further information on course structure and student requirements, download the appropriate program handbook at MODFS Certification Program Handbooks .

Registration

Pre-registration is required and must be submitted and approved prior to the start of the course requested. This course is open to interested individuals who have met all prerequisites and submitted completed applications with required documentation attached. Classes are limited to a maximum to 20 students. For a list of pre-requisites, course information and how to register, refer to the Fire Investigator Certification Handbook, or contact the Division’s Training and Certification Unit at 573-522-4849. Applicants will be notified prior to the course of their acceptance and any additional instructions.

As a licensed POST provider for continuing education credit, the division has formatted this course to meet in-service continuing education hours for law enforcement representatives. Refer to the Fire Investigator course syllabus for the provided POST hours.

Fire Investigator Certification Exam

The written exam for this level consists of 100 multiple-choice questions referenced to the NFPA 1033, Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Investigator and the course curriculum. Preparation for the exam should also include a review of Fire Behavior, Building Construction, and Hazardous Materials curricula. Students have two hours to complete the written exam. The student must achieve a score of 70 percent on the exam to qualify for certification. The practical skills exam is to be completed during the Fire Investigator Course, as well as with a take-home assignment to complete an investigation of a structure fire and complete a written report.

Fire Investigator certification is internationally accredited by IFSAC and Pro Board.