Has assistance been rendered to victims and have officers noted witnesses behavior and statements?
Law enforcement often has the opportunity to observe and interact with victims and witnesses very close to the time of the event. Render assistance to anyone in distress and pay careful attention to how they act and what they say. Keep witnesses at a safe distance from the fire scene and do not allow them to enter the premises. Offer to contact a family member or friend to assist a victim, especially one in emotional distress. Attempt to gain as much information as possible; their impressions will be fresher the sooner they are given. Call for an ambulance as appropriate. Has a perimeter been established and the scene secured? Err on the side of caution and set a larger, rather than a smaller, perimeter. Tape off or otherwise secure the location and post officers to monitor the perimeter so unauthorized personnel cannot access the scene. Keep the crowd and the media at a safe distance. Neighbors, tenants, owners, and others connected to the property should not be allowed back in unless
