What should investigative reports explicitly avoid?

Investigative reports must be objective and based solely on facts and evidence collected during an investigation. By explicitly avoiding opinions or conclusions, the report maintains its integrity and ensures that the information presented can withstand scrutiny. Reports should be grounded in verifiable data, allowing the reader to understand the basis of findings without being influenced by personal biases or interpretations. This approach fosters trust in the investigative process and upholds the standards expected in a professional fire investigation.

While historical context can provide valuable background, and technical jargon may sometimes be necessary for precision, the emphasis must always be on the factual basis of the investigation. Conclusive findings can also be appropriate when they are derived directly from the evidence without subjective interpretation. Therefore, the focus on excluding opinions or conclusions is critical to maintaining the reliability and objectivity of the investigative report.