What is an exemplar in the context of fire investigation?

An exemplar, in the context of fire investigation, refers to a sample of the material that was involved in the fire. This can include items such as debris from the fire scene, remnants of the materials that burned, or any other physical evidence that can help investigators analyze and understand the fire's origin and cause. Examining an exemplar allows investigators to conduct tests, compare it to other materials, and gather important data regarding how the fire behaved, what may have contributed to its spread, and whether specific accelerants were present.

By having access to the same type of materials that burned, fire investigators can recreate fire scenarios or analyze chemical compositions, which is vital in establishing a thorough understanding of the incident. This direct physical evidence is crucial in building an accurate reconstruction of the events that transpired during the fire, which further aids in legal proceedings or reporting.