Instructor: Jason Mardirosian, MS, BS, IAAI-CFI, CI, ECT, NAFI-CFEI, CFII
The actions taken during the first few minutes of a fire response often determine the success or failure of a fire investigation. This course is designed specifically for firefighters and company officers who serve as the critical link between suppression operations and formal investigative efforts.
Participants will review the fundamental responsibilities of first responders related to origin and cause determination, including scene awareness, preservation of evidence, and documentation. The program will cover basic fire pattern recognition, indicators of fire spread, and distinguishing between suppression-related damage and fire effects. Attendees will also learn practical techniques for identifying and protecting potential evidence while maintaining operational priorities.
Through real-world examples and practical application, this course reinforces the vital role firefighters and officers play in supporting accurate, defensible fire investigations from the moment they arrive on scene.
Intended Audience: Firefighters, company officers, and fire service personnel seeking to strengthen their understanding of investigative responsibilities on the fireground.
MS, BS / IAAI–CFI, CI, ECT / NAFI–CFEI, CFII
Jason Mardirosian is a 28-year veteran and Lieutenant with the Chicago Fire Department, including 17 years assigned to its Fire & Arson Investigation Unit. He also brings more than 20 years of private-sector investigative consulting experience and currently serves as an investigator with FEC LLC.
Mardirosian retired after 16 years with the Summit Police Department as a part-time police officer and arson investigator. A Past President of the Illinois Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators, he was recognized as the 2006 Investigator of the Year by the International Association of Arson Investigators.
He provides instruction nationally and internationally on arson, fire, and explosion investigations, combining structured classroom presentation with practical, hands-on training to reinforce sound investigative methodology and field application.
