Which of the following actions should NOT be taken when securing a fire scene?

Leaving the fire scene open for public access compromises the integrity of the evidence and the overall investigation. It allows unrestricted individuals to potentially alter or destroy important physical evidence, which can affect the outcome of the investigation and lead to challenges in legal proceedings. Properly securing a fire scene involves preventing unauthorized personnel from entering, ensuring that evidence remains undisturbed.

In contrast, documenting security measures, collecting evidence carefully, and monitoring the scene are all critical steps in maintaining the integrity of a fire investigation. Documenting security measures provides a record of how the scene was secured, which can be important in understanding the context of the evidence. Collecting evidence carefully ensures that it is preserved in a manner suitable for analysis and potential court presentation. Monitoring the scene helps protect it from unauthorized access and maintains a chain of custody for any evidence gathered. Each of these actions plays a vital role in the effectiveness and thoroughness of the investigation.