What type of evidence includes physical items recovered from the fire scene?

Physical evidence refers to tangible items that can be collected and analyzed during an investigation. These items can include anything from debris, charred materials, or any objects that were present in the area of the fire. Physical evidence is crucial in understanding the circumstances of a fire incident, as it can help establish how the fire started, its point of origin, and the materials involved in combustion.

Testimonial evidence, on the other hand, relies on statements made by witnesses or those involved, which can convey perceptions and opinions but lacks the direct physical connection to the event being investigated. Documentary evidence consists of written or recorded documentation, such as reports or photographs, providing information but not serving as physical items from the scene. Behavioral evidence pertains to actions or reactions of individuals, which might be relevant in certain investigations but does not directly involve items recovered from the site.

By understanding that physical evidence is essential in fire investigations for providing concrete, analyzable facts, one can appreciate its role in reconstructing the events leading to and during a fire incident.