Fire investigations are carried out for a range of reasons by the police, building owners, building insurers and others. As well as providing critical information about specific incidents, the systematic investigation and study of real fires are essential to develop and enhance our knowledge base and seek to ensure that such incidents are not repeated. This Digest discusses: - which organisations carry out fire investigations - what information can be obtained from a fire investigation - the use of reconstructions and computer modelling in supporting investigations - examples of the benefits of fire investigations to the wider community - case studies that illustrate some of the lessons learned from major incidents. A4, 8pp Contents Who carrries out a fire investigation? Why carry out a fire investigation? Learning lessons from fires The uses of a reconstruction The uses of computer modelling The benefits of fire investigation - Fire investigation findings (Case studies) Conclusions References