Mike, Pat, Nick, George et al.

I agree in general with Mikes last posting. However, besides the Libel laws which many posts are on the verge of violating and many of these postings being used in court (as referenced by Mr. LaPalio's last posting and I have warned about repeatedly over the past 4-5 years), there is at least one other issue to support this position, involving our field's Code of Ethics.

Excerpt of the NAFI Code of Ethics:

PREAMBLE: Fire investigation is an honorable profession based on service, research, knowledge, preparation, experience, technical know-how and ethical standards. In recognition of the dedicated professional men and women who serve the world as Fire Investigators under the American system of “Justice Under the Law,” the National Association of Fire Investigators has established a Creed and Code of Ethics, which is binding upon all of its members. Each member agrees as follows:
1. As a Fire Investigator, I will at all times conduct myself accordingly to this Code of Ethics, which I have signed.
2. I will deal justly and impartially with all individuals, regardless of their physical, mental, emotional, political, economic, social, racial, or religious characteristics.
3. I do, as a Fire Investigator, regard myself as a member of an important and honorable professional, and will strive to serve fairly in all other respects not specifically covered by this CODE.

Either we are going to support the Code of Ethics of our organizations or we should get rid of them completely and let this be an anarchy of free thought and posting without regard to professionism and the founding principles of the field. I personally have chosen the former to promote professionalism in the field.

How many times have we seen or heard recently that people are no longer posting here because they are afraid of the backlash and ridicule for asking some questions? This forum has about 230 members but only only 128 have posted here, about 30 regularly. That is roughly 1/7 and should tell you something.

I totally understand that many of the discussions can be heated sometimes, especially given the strong emotions that several issues raise. However, we are here to promote our field in the best possible way, as well as discuss issues, and when necessary, help others with issues and topics that may arise. Using name calling and degrading libelous comments does not promote professionalism.

Being said, perhaps in the future such rules will not be needed, one can only hope. But right now, given the venom flying and personal degredation and name calling, that is the reason for the new rule change here


Chris