Fire/Arson Investigations : Fire/Arson Investigations
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Re: Examples of negligent or reckless arson
Posted by: Mike Learmonth (IP Logged)
Date: April 08, 2009 08:40AM
Thanks for your comments.
While it is true that a lit cigarette is typically not an effective ignition source for gasoline vapour (see Kirk's Fire investigation 6th edition, page 175), as I understand it the paper on a cigarette may occasionally flare (I have seen that happen) and of course a cigarette may accidentally ignite other cellulosic materials present (like paper for instance), and either of those flames can then effectively ignite the gasoline vapour.
Michael A. Learmonth, B.A.Sc., M.B.A., M.Eng., J.D., LL.B., C.F.E.I., P.Eng.
Senior Associate, Giffin Koerth Forensic Engineering and Science
40 University Avenue, Suite 800
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5J 1T1
Phone: 416-368-1700 ext. 225
Fax: 416-368-5576
While it is true that a lit cigarette is typically not an effective ignition source for gasoline vapour (see Kirk's Fire investigation 6th edition, page 175), as I understand it the paper on a cigarette may occasionally flare (I have seen that happen) and of course a cigarette may accidentally ignite other cellulosic materials present (like paper for instance), and either of those flames can then effectively ignite the gasoline vapour.
Michael A. Learmonth, B.A.Sc., M.B.A., M.Eng., J.D., LL.B., C.F.E.I., P.Eng.
Senior Associate, Giffin Koerth Forensic Engineering and Science
40 University Avenue, Suite 800
Toronto, Ontario, Canada M5J 1T1
Phone: 416-368-1700 ext. 225
Fax: 416-368-5576
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