Each year, wildfire season destroys communities, ecosystems, and industries across Western Canada. As these fires grow more frequent and intense, understanding their origin and cause becomes critical—not only for assigning liability but also for guiding prevention strategies and public safety planning.

At Clearwater Fire Forensics, our team of certified investigators specializes in wildland fire investigation, offering expert analysis rooted in science, experience, and adherence to nationally recognized guidelines. Whether it’s a case involving arson, negligence, or equipment failure, our mission is to uncover the truth and support informed legal and insurance decisions.

Why Wildland Fire Investigations Matter

When a wildfire spreads across thousands of hectares, it can be difficult to trace its cause. But pinpointing that cause is essential. Insurance providers rely on accurate findings to process claims. Legal teams need expert evidence to pursue or defend litigation. Government agencies require root-cause data to shape fire prevention policies. And in cases of criminal negligence or arson, law enforcement depends on forensic insights to build their case.

Wildfire investigations don’t just serve the aftermath—they also help prevent future disasters by identifying risks and patterns that may otherwise go unnoticed.

Clearwater’s Wildfire Investigation Process

Scientific, Methodical, and Certified

Clearwater Fire Forensics uses a structured approach explicitly tailored to wildland environments. Our investigators are certified through the Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre (CIFFC) in FI-210 and FI-310 and follow the PMS 412 Guideline for Wildfire Origin and Cause Investigations—ensuring consistent, professional methodology every time.

Our investigation process includes:

  • Analysis of fire spread patterns to determine how the fire moved through terrain and fuel types
  • Terrain and environmental assessments to evaluate topography, wind conditions, and ignition potential
  • Satellite imagery and aerial drone mapping for large-scale scene documentation and fire behavior reconstruction

We also work closely with land management agencies and canine detection teams to locate physical evidence in remote or difficult-to-access areas.

Determining Origin and Cause

Finding the point of origin is one of the most important steps in any fire investigation. In a wildland context, this means tracing fire movement through vegetation, identifying directional indicators, and narrowing the area to a precise location. From there, investigators assess potential ignition sources—ranging from natural causes like lightning to human activities such as open burning, powerline failures, or machinery sparks.

When Legal or Insurance Support Is Required

Wildfires often give rise to complex legal and financial questions. Clearwater Fire Forensics provides expert witness services to support civil litigation, criminal proceedings, and insurance disputes across Western Canada. Our team prepares detailed expert reports, reviews case files, and delivers authoritative courtroom testimony.

We are regularly called upon in cases involving arson, product liability, and large-scale fire losses. With certifications from top industry bodies and decades of combined field experience, Clearwater’s investigators bring credibility and clarity to even the most challenging cases.

Beyond Investigation: Fire Risk Assessment

Preventing wildfire starts with understanding fire risk. Clearwater Fire Forensics also offers fire risk assessment services to help industries, municipalities, and landowners reduce the likelihood of catastrophic fires. Our team conducts on-site inspections, analyzes potential ignition sources, and develops customized fire safety plans tailored to each client’s environment and operations.

Trusted Across Western Canada

Based in Edmonton, Clearwater Fire Forensics proudly serves clients throughout Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, and Manitoba. Whether the fire involves a wildland area, a vehicle, or a structure, our team is equipped with the tools, training, and experience needed to deliver reliable results and trusted support.

If your organization, legal team, or agency needs help determining the cause of a wildfire, Clearwater Fire Forensics is here to help. We are committed to scientific accuracy, unbiased analysis, and expert service—no matter the scale of the incident.

Additional Resources for Wildfire Management in Canada

For more on wildfire prevention, current activity, and federal resources, visit Natural Resources Canada – Wildland Fire.