What do benchmark events represent in a fire investigation?

Benchmark events in a fire investigation are significant moments or key occurrences that help to establish a timeline of events related to the fire. These events can include things such as the ignition point of the fire, the time the fire department was notified, and key moments during the fire's development. By accurately documenting and analyzing these benchmark events, investigators can build a clear understanding of how the fire progressed, identify its causes, and analyze the response efforts.

The identification of these critical timeline foundations allows investigators to piece together a coherent narrative of the incident. Without such a timeline, it would be challenging to assess the factors that contributed to the fire's behavior and the effectiveness of the response. Therefore, recognizing and establishing benchmark events is vital for an effective and thorough investigation.