Date/Time
Date(s) - 11/13/2026
8:30 am - 3:30 pm
Categories
To Register: click link below, download form, mail completed applications to: Maine Chapter IAAI, P.O. Box 1101, Auburn, Me 04211-1101
Technology for the Fire Investigator
Speaker: Robert Toth, IAAI-CFI
Robert Toth began his professional career in the fire service, dedicating nearly 21 years to this field. During his last decade in the service, he transitioned to law enforcement, specializing in fire investigations within both the public and private sectors. In 2002, following his retirement from the fire service, he established IRIS Fire Investigations, Inc., where he currently conducts origin and cause investigations in Colorado and neighboring states.
In addition to his investigative work, Robert is highly regarded for his expertise and frequently sought after to deliver lectures and presentations on various topics. These include fire investigations, NFPA 921, interviewing techniques, internet technology, and digital photography training. His extensive knowledge has been shared with public agencies and private enterprises throughout the United States, as well as internationally in countries such as Canada, Hong Kong, Malaysia, Botswana, and South Africa.
Furthermore, Robert is honored to have held the esteemed position of President within the International Association of Arson Investigators
(IAAI).
Program Synopsis:
Technology does not have to be expensive, complicated, or cutting-edge to make a fire investigator more effective. Sometimes the best solution is a simple tool repurposed for the fire scene; other times it may be a smartphone or tablet already in your pocket. And increasingly, investigators have access to sophisticated technologies capable of changing how we document, measure, preserve, analyze, and ultimately explain a fire scene. Technology for the Fire Investigator: No Tech, Low Tech, and High Tech is a three-hour program designed to explore that entire spectrum—from practical “why didn’t I think of that?” field solutions to emerging technologies that are reshaping modern fire investigation. This will not be a catalog of gadgets. The focus is on the investigator: identifying a problem, selecting the right tool, understanding what that tool can—and cannot—tell you, and incorporating technology into a systematic investigation without allowing it to replace sound investigative methodology and professional judgment. We will look at practical approaches to scene documentation, measurements, photography, note-taking and evidence examination, along with higher-technology options that can expand an investigator’s capabilities. Whether you work with a limited equipment budget or have access to the latest technology, you should leave with ideas you can put to work on your next investigation. Bring your curiosity, bring your experience, and bring your own favorite investigative “hack” to share. Register and join us as we look at how no tech, low tech, and high tech can each have a place in the fire investigator’s toolbox.