Should a fire ever be classified as "suspicious"?

A fire can be classified as "suspicious" when there are indications that it may not have originated from natural or accidental causes. However, classifying a fire as "suspicious" is a nuanced process that requires careful evaluation and should not be dismissed outright.

The classification indicates potential criminal activity, thus necessitating a thorough and methodical investigation. Factors such as the fire's origin, patterns, presence of accelerants, and the circumstances surrounding the incident help determine whether a fire is suspicious. It is critical to have concrete evidence or observations that contribute to this assessment rather than relying solely on subjective interpretations or assumptions.

While eyewitness accounts and suspicion of arson are important considerations, they should be part of broader evidence-gathering efforts. Hence, stating that a fire should not be categorized as suspicious oversimplifies the investigation process and may hinder the identification of criminal activities associated with deliberately set fires.