What term refers to incidents with a known exact time, such as dispatch times?

The term "hard times" accurately describes incidents where the exact timing is established, such as dispatch times. In the context of fire investigation, having definitive times is crucial as it allows investigators to establish timelines and understand the sequence of events surrounding an incident. Hard times can be derived from various sources, including dispatch logs, which provide precise records of when assistance was requested and when it was dispatched.

Recognizing the importance of confirmed times helps investigators analyze patterns and determine causation effectively, as vague or estimated times could lead to misinterpretations of the event sequence. The use of hard times is fundamental in maintaining the integrity of a fire investigation and contributing to a reliable assessment of the incident's circumstances.