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Clive Hubbard is a Certified Fire and Explosion Investigator. He has over 35 years of experience with the Toronto Police Service, Halton Regional Police Service, and most recently, with the Ontario Office of the Fire Marshal, conducting comprehensive investigations of the origin, cause and circumstances of fire and explosion scenes. This also includes identifying issues relating to fire safety and involves the identification, collection, preservation, and presentation of evidence to be used in court. He has completed over 400 investigations and, in many cases, has provided expert witness testimony. Additionally, as an Adjunct Instructor, Clive instructed students enrolled in the National Fire Protection Association Standard for Professional Qualifications for Fire Investigator (NFPA 1033) at the Ontario Fire College (OFC) and Regional Training Centre’s (RTC) throughout Ontario.
Fire and Explosion Investigator
OCI Group (Formerly Origin and Cause Incorporated)
April 2025 – Present
Fire Investigator
Office of the Fire Marshal, Ministry of the Solicitor General
December 2013 – March 2025
Enforcement Officer
The Ontario College of Trades
April 2013 – December 2013
Conduct Investigations of Certified Trades regarding Professional Misconduct, Incompetence, or Incapacity. Inspect work sites to ensure Licensed Tradespeople are performing work related to the restricted trades. Take enforcement action where required. Testify at Provincial Offences Court or in front of the Discipline Committee at the College level.
NFA #49 Certified Field Technician
CON-TEST, A Division of Contamination Containment Technology Inc.
April 2013 – December 2013
Service Hospitals, Pharmaceutical Companies, Research Facilities & Universities with their Controlled Environment needs and equipment. Service, Repair and Certify Class II A2 & B2 Biological Safety Cabinets and related Controlled Environment Air Systems. Inspect, Repair, and certify Fume Hoods and other extraction devices.
Police Officer
Toronto Police Service, Halton Regional Police Service
November 1977 – November 2006
Retired as a Detective Constable. Worked in Uniformed Patrol, Criminal Investigations, Plain Clothes, Intelligence, Surveillance, and the Maplehurst / Vanier Correctional Centre Liaison Unit. Seconded to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police for a year and a half Investigating Traditional Organized Crime in the Golden Horseshoe.
OFM – FIS Training Seminar – OFM Headquarters
November 20, 2024
2-hour seminar presented by OFM Management regarding Section 2.8 of the Ontario Fire Code (Fire Safety Plans), Update regarding FIRS (Fire Investigation Reporting System)
Niagara Arson Committee – One Day Seminar
Thorold Fire Department Headquarters
November 14, 2024
1-day seminar featuring case study presentations from OFM Investigators (including myself), Arson Investigations from an Insurance Perspective, Lithium-Ion battery fires, case studies and hazards, Bone Deconstruction in fatal fires, first Responder responsibilities at scene and human remains recovery.
OFM – Annual FIS Fall Training – Office of the Fire Marshal
Royal Canadian Legion Branch #162, Elmvale, Ontario
October 21-24, 2024
4-day training featuring presentation by OFM Staff regarding the ongoing experimental project on gasoline and material sampling, a Corporate Update presented by OFM Management, digital resources, lithium batteries, hazards and remediation, Motor vehicle fires, hazards and evidence recovery, case studies related to two recent fires (Guelph Fatal and Toronto Anglican Church).
OFM – Annual FIS Spring Training
Office of the Fire Marshal, Royal Canadian Legion Branch #147, Barrie, Ontario
June 5-6, 2024
2-day training featuring lectures on the analytical services offered by the Centre of Forensic Sciences with emphasis on the processes and limitations in regards to origin and cause investigations. Discussions on the chemical properties of gasoline and its interaction with heat.
Expert evidence testimony, challenges to origin and cause evidence. Different investigative methods to minimize risk associated with challenges as an expert witness.
Case study relating to a butane explosion and the associated hypothesis testing which included a live demonstration at the Elmvale fire grounds.
Corporate update from the Deputy Fire Marshal, Fire Marshal and the Deputy Solicitor General.
Presentation on the changes associated with the newest edition of NFPA 921 – 2024 Edition.
OFM – FIS Training – Case Study – 209-002-2016 and 270-023-2023
Richmond Hill Fire Department Training Facility
January 23-24, 2024
Presentations by the lead investigators (James ALLEN and Jim CAMPBELL) detailing the circumstances and challenges associated with these two investigations. Working with outside agencies such as TSSA, ATF, CFS and First Nations. Difficulties associated with working in remote locations under adverse conditions.
OFM Annual Fall Training
Office of the Fire Marshal, Elmvale, Ontario
October 16-20, 2023
5-day training presented by various OFM personnel and outside experts.
Topics discussed – Understanding the interaction between the OFM – FIS and the Ontario Forensic Pathology unit. Presented by Dr. Andrew WILLIAMS, MD, FRCPC, (AP & FP) Forensic Pathologist.
Understanding the authorities within the Ontario Fire Code, the Ontario Building Code and the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997, followed by case reviews. Presented by OFM Operations Manager Tawnya ROBERTS and Jeff TEBBY.
Dust explosions, their hazards, common causes, probable outcomes and prevention methods. Presented by Jeff MYCROFT, B.Sc. Regional Sales Manager FIKE Canada.
“Stranger Things” presentation focusing on situations that may present themselves at fire and explosion investigations that are unexpected or unusual. Presented by Steve SILVER, Forensic Fire Protection Engineer – OFM.
Presentation from the Technical Standards and Safety Authority (TSSA) regarding common safety-related issues caused to Natural Gas distribution systems. Coupled with a presentation from Ontario ONE CALL system regarding methods of obtaining a locate, the need to obtain them and common issues with improperly identified locates including methods to mitigate potential hazards.
Presentation from Enbridge Natural gas detailing the natural gas distribution system in North America and specifically Ontario including the collection and storage of natural gas, distribution to residential and commercial properties, regulators, and metering.
Presentation on the hazards associated with stove top cooking fires followed by a live burn demonstration and the application of water. Presented by Kyle HASSELMAN and Ryan JORDAN OFM – FFPE.
Dust explosion discussion, hazards, causes followed by a live demonstration. Presented by Barbara SYLVESTRE-WILLIAMS OFM – FFPE.
Presentation on portable fire suppression extinguishers. Presented by Peter HALLINAN, General Manager SSi Fire Solutions and Kevin CUSACK, VP of Sales, Western North America, Fireaway Inc. followed by live burn demonstrations.
Respiratory protection, proper use and maintenance of issued PPE. Presented by Dale MOORE, OFM ERU Specialist.
Presentation on teamwork and leadership presented by Chris LEWIS, C.O.M., retired Commissioner of the Ontario Provincial Police.
Presentation on the recovery of human remains from both structure and motor vehicle fires. The hazards, difficulties, and methods of evidence collection. Presented by Greg OLSON, M.Sc., CFEI Forensic Anthropologist.
Forensic Photography for Fire Investigators
Canadian Association of Fire Investigators (NAFI)
August 28, 2023
1-hour seminar presented by Brad Walsh, Constable Victoria Police Service and Assistant Chief / Fire Investigator Megan Sabell, Victoria Fire Department. Properly documenting a scene requires an investigator to possess a fundamental understanding of photography, including familiarity with equipment and accessories, lighting and movement, and common camera settings. Provided with valuable theory that will help to obtain better evidentiary photographs at fire investigations. NFPA 921 Guide for Fire and Explosion Investigations, 2021 edition, Chapter 16.2 – 16.2.10 (Photography)
The Hazards Associated with Dust Explosions
Ontario Municipal Fire Prevention Officers Association (OMFPA) – South West Ontario Chapter
June 20, 2023 – St Clair Fire Department, Corunna Station
2-hour presentation on the causes and hazards associated with dust explosions, current inspection issues and mitigation systems. Delivered by Jeff Mycroft, B.Sc. Regional Sales Manager, Ontario for FIKE CANADA INC.
Motor Vehicle Fire Investigations
International Association of Arson Investigators (I.A.A.I) – Ontario Chapter
June 7 and 8, 2023 – 2 Days in class training
Presentation on the following topics by: The Importance of VIN Verification; Jeff DAVIS, Davis V.I.N. Consulting Inc. / The Relationship between Fire Investigation Basics and Vehicle Arson; Scott Broad, CFEI, CVFI, CFII, Envista Forensics. / Infotainment Examination; Matthew OBACH, MASc., P.Eng., CFEI, CVFI, Origin and Cause, Consulting Forensic Engineers and Fire Investigations, Z.S. Pete VOLARIC, B.A. (Hons), LLB, Jeffrey R. GOIT, B.A. (Hons), J.D., DiVincenzo Volaric LLP, Barristers & Solicitors.
Lithium-Ion Battery Symposium – Challenges for the Fire Service
March 30, 2023 – 1 Day Online Symposium
Presented by Fire Safety Research Institute and the District of Columbia Fire and EMS – Speakers: Hunter Clare, Captain Peoria Fire-Medical Department Arizona, – Dr. Thomas Barth PhD, Chief, Special Investigations Branch at National Transportation Safety Board, – Adam Barowy, Research Engineer, Fire Safety Research Institute – Lt. John Cassidy, Haz-mat Company 1, Fire Department of New York – Captain Evan Balcombe, Fire Department of New York – Sean DeCrane, Director, Firefighter Health and Safety Operational Services, International Association of Firefighters –
Topics Presented: Lithium-Ion Battery Storage System Explosion in Arizona – Electric Vehicle Fire Hazards – Fundamentals of Lithium-ion Battery Fires –
e-Mobility Firefighting Best Practices – Electric Vehicle Firefighting Considerations – Energy Storage System Firefighting Best Practices – Panel Discussion: Judy Jeevarajan, PhD, Vice President, Research, Electrochemical Safety Research Institute – Chief Otto Drozd, Executive Secretary, Metropolitan Fire Chiefs Association – Chief Michael O’Brian, Board Member, International Association of Fire Chiefs – Hunter Clare – Sean DeCrane.
OFM Annual Spring Training
Office of the Fire Marshal
June 22 and 23, 2022 – 2 Days in class training
Presentation by OFM Staff – Corporate update – Media Communications -Training initiatives, OFC, MLFTU, Changes to NFPA 921, Testifying as an Expert Witness, Sunlight as an ignition source.
NARCAN Training
Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management
December 6, 2021
Presentation by Simcoe EMS on the hazards, signs and symptoms of Fentanyl and Opioid exposure, the response and use of aerosolized NARCAN as a treatment.
Canadian Association of Fire Investigators (CAFI)
September 22, 2021 – 1-hour Online Seminar
Presentation of NFPA-1033 – 2022 – The New Requirements for Fire Investigator Qualifications.
OFMEM Annual Fall Training
Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management
September 13-17, 2021 – 5 days of in-class training
Topics presented included, Mental Wellness for the Fire Investigator, the Digital Evidence Management System, Media Interactions, Respiratory Protection, Atmospheric Monitoring at Fire Scenes, The Field Identification of Hazardous Materials, and an introduction to the Advanced Fire Cause Determination Course – Chemistry of Fire; Electrical Aspects of Fire Investigations; Computer Fire Modelling; Fire Alarm and Protection Systems; and Fuel Systems and Explosions (including case reviews: Aluminum Dust Explosion, Sarnia, and Sunrise Propane Explosion, Toronto).
Presented by OFMEM staff FFPE Christine MAK, FFPE Eerik RANDSALU, FFPE Steve SILVER, FFPE James BENNETT, FFPE Bruce PATTERSON; FFPE Qadeer CHOUDRY, EPRU Specialist Brent STERLING, Kathleen CRAIG/FI Manager LAWSON (DEMS), and outside instructors Michele RICH; and Sean DRISCOLL.
Canadian Association of Fire Investigators (CAFI)
July 12, 2021
1-hour online seminar on Fire Dynamics – Part 2.
Canadian Association of Fire Investigators (CAFI)
June 30, 2021 – 1-hour Online Seminar
Presentation on Fire Dynamics – Part 1.
OFMEM Annual Fall Training
Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management
June 16-18, 2021
3 Days of in-class training on the updates from the new edition of NFPA 921 – 2021 Edition, fire dynamics and technical report writing.
OFMEM First Aid Training – Casualty Care
May 26, 2021
1-day training including standard first aid, CPR and AED.
Canadian Association of Fire Investigators (CAFI)
April 6, 2021 – 1 hour Online Webinar
Update on Electric Vehicle Fires in Canada.
Canadian Association of Fire Investigators (CAFI)
November 24, 2020
1-hour online Presentation on the dynamics of slow ignition scenarios dealing mostly with the application of cigarettes to various fuels. Presented by training officers Mike Ross and Jason Williams from the OFMEM.
OFMEM Annual Fall Training
Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management, Online
September 21-24, 2020
Fire Dynamics Course:4 day Fire Dynamics training with J. Lord (ATF FRL Engineer Ret.) and OFMEM Instructors in relation to Fire Dynamics Calculations, Heat Transfer, Ignition, Compartment Fire Dynamics, Utilizing Fire Alarm Systems in Origin & Cause Determination, Fire Modelling and Report Writing.
Canadian Association of Fire Investigators (CAFI)
June 3, 2020
1-hour online presentation on the 3 most common causes for vehicle fires.
OFMEM QARM Training
Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management, Online Training
April and May 2020
Principles of Fire Behaviour – Lectures covering Ignition (piloted vs autoignition, evaporation, flashpoint, fire point, ignition of the states of matter, ignition temperature of solids), Flame Spread (types of flame spread), Fire Plumes (buoyancy and entrainment, behavior of fire plumes, flame heights and temperatures above fires) and Combustion Products (nature and levels of combustion products for various fire conditions). Each of the specific topics had learning objectives and demonstrated in its application in the confines of the scientific method and case studies.
Unique Challenges of Investigating Files in Extreme Cold
Canadian Association of Fire Investigators (CAFI)
February 18, 2020
1-hour seminar on working in extreme weather.
OFMEM QARM Training
Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management, Midhurst
December 10-12, 2019
Two days of fire investigation training as it relates to the scientific method and multiple compartment area of origin analysis. Relevant case law as it relates to expert evidence delivery of fire investigation. Presented by QARM staff.
OFMEM Annual Fall Training
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
November 18-22, 2019
Annual Fall training, Topics covered included Incident management, building construction, PPE, use, cleaning, application donning and doffing, radio communication, common fire fighting terminology, fire extinguishers, fire fighting equipment (hoses, nozzles, etc.), hose streams, firefighter tactics and safety, urban and rural water supply, compartment fire spread.
OFMEM Fire Code – Div B – Part 2 & 6
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
October 28 – November 1, 2019
NFPA Certification Course presented at the Ontario Fire College. Instruction on the authorities and requirements for the inspections for compliance with the Ontario Fire and Building Code’s as it applies to various occupancy classifications in Ontario.
Presented by OFC Instructional Staff.
OFMEM Engineering Training
Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management, Midhurst
October 17, 2019
Instruction on the Chemistry of Fire including discussions on the History of Chemistry, Matter, Elements and Compounds, Physical Structure of Atoms, The Periodic Table, Physical State (gas, solid, liquid), Oxidation, Energy, Molecules and Chemical Reactions, Types of Energy, (kinetic, potential, chemical), Exothermic and Endothermic Reactions, Organic Chemistry, Chemistry of Combustion, Explosions.
Presented by OFMEM Forensic Fire Protection Engineer Steve SILVER and
Dr. Kenneth J. REIMER BSc, MSc, PhD, FCIC.
NFPA 1033 Fire Inspector I
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
September 16-20, 2019
NFPA Certification Course presented at the Ontario Fire College. Instruction on the authorities and requirements for the inspections for compliance to the Ontario Fire and Building Code’s for various occupancy classifications in Ontario.
Presented by OFC Instructional Staff.
Proctored NFPA Certification Exam – 20th September 2019 – Successful
OFMEM Fire Code – Div B – Part 9
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
July 17-21, 2019
Ontario Fire College 5 day training program dealing with Part 9 of the Ontario Fire Code and the requirements for retrofit of fire safety systems in specific building occupancies. Presented by OFC Instructional Staff.
OFMEM Annual Spring Training
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
May 13-15, 2019
Ontario Fire College 3 day training program. Instruction and discussion with live burn scenarios. Topics included fire analysis, fire dynamics, scientific method, fire pattern, fire suppression on involvement in compartment fires. Presented by training staff of the OFMEM.
OFMEM Annual Fall Training
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
October 1-4, 2018
Ontario Fire College 4-day training program. Instruction and discussion with live demonstration on flame jetting, Multi Rae training, Expert Witness Trial Challenges presented by Madam Justice Laura Bird, Case Studies & Health Canada Mandate presented by FFPE & members from Health Canada, Vehicle Fires – Identification of vehicle presented by OPP Detective Constable Kevin Calhoun, EPRU Unit Equipment and Response presented by EPRU Specialist Brent Sterling, Live Burn Presentations – West Grey – FI’s Bird, Rushton, Gibson & Lock.
OFMEM Annual Fall Training
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
November 27-28, 2017
Ontario Fire College 4-day training program. Instruction received on fire scene safety, surviving cross examination, heat release rate and associated calculations. Dispatched to a fire the morning of the 3rd day.
OFMEM Annual Spring Training
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
May 8-12, 2017
Ontario Fire College 5 day training covering topics including Human Osteology, Fire Recovery of Human Remains, (Structure and Vehicle), Shallow Grave Recovery, Surface Scatter of Human Remains and Entomology. Presented by Dr. Kathy Gruspier, M.A., B.A., Ph.D., J.D., Ontario Forensic Pathology Service, Greg Olson, B.A., M.Sc., Forensic Anthropologist, Dr. Helene N. LeBlanc, Ph.D., Associate Professor, University of Ontario Institute of Technology.
OFMEM Annual Fall Training
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
November 29 – December 2, 2016
Ontario Fire College 4-day training covering topics including timelines and how they impact fire cause investigation, test burns of smouldering fires on items such as paper, fabric, brush, hay, and cardboard, lecture on smouldering fires and heat transfer as it relates to smouldering fires, Critical Incident Stress, case study R vrs Jorden.
OFMEM Annual Spring Training
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
June 6-10, 2016
Ontario Fire College 5 day annual training course covering topics including a case study of the Pikangikum multiple fatality fire, panel discussion covering topics relating to current trends in court, issues stemming from case reviews, accidental fires, role of Supervisors and Coordinators, energy for flashover, time to ignition calculations, LEL vs UEL, specific gravity vs. vapour density, basic fire dynamics, elevated fire case study, smouldering fires on various surfaces demonstration burns, open flame burns, electrical failures, heat release rate required for flashover, ventilation effects on fire development, fires in confined spaces, smouldering fires, fire development and dynamics with elevated fuels, factors affecting self-heating and spontaneous ignition, explosions.
Understanding Ventilation and Post-flashover Fire Dynamics
Canadian Association of Fire Investigators (CAFI) Spring Training Seminar
April 20, 2016
Fire and Emergency Services Training Institute (FESTI) – A full day training seminar presented by Jeff MINTEN, BA, CFEI, Fire Investigations Supervisor with the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management. Topics included: common mistakes, fire science (Thermometry, Fluid Dynamics, Fire Chemistry), flashover, factors affecting fire development, identifying the difference in fire development pre and post flashover, locating the fire triangle, hypothesizing the “when” in fire development, dead air space, flow paths, confined spaces, stairways, chaseways and chimneys.
OFMEM Annual Spring Training
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
June 1-5, 2015
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst. 5 day training seminar covering topics including: CISM Peer Support, MOPI Review, Advanced fire chemistry, growth and development of elevated fires, ventilation effects related to area of origin determination, fuel vs ventilation controlled fires, fire dynamics as they relate to case studies, demonstration burns smoldering vs flaming ignition, fatal fires and the fire dynamics related to the body as a fuel package, smoldering ignition, explosion dynamics and their application in case studies, and engineering demonstrations of electrical failures, electrical arcs, hot surface ignition of gasoline, ignition with fireworks, ignition from mirrors, and explosive ranges
2015 Forensic Investigative Services Conference
Toronto Police Service
May 12-15, 2015
4-day training conference covering topics including:
Use of Chemical and Biological Agents in Criminal Cases and Terrorism Incidents – A discussion of several criminal cases and terrorism incidents and how local and federal law enforcement responded; and the methods that were used to solve the cases and pursue the terrorist – Presented by Dr. David Hodge, U.S. Department of Homeland Security
Serial Killer Case Study – A presentation of the Ottawa Police Service investigation of Serial Killer Camille Cleroux as assisted by Forensic Anthropologist Greg Olson, MSc;
Excavation of Human Remains from Historical Graves, Victim recovery from an air crash during extreme winter conditions – Presented by Greg Olson, MSc; Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management
Current Challenges to Forensic Evidence – A panel discussion regarding the legal issues related to expert testimony. Including the implications of the Gouge inquiry as well as issues surrounding the tests to qualify an expert witness including a “cost – benefit” analysis – Presented by Justice David Rose, Crown Attorney Paul Tait and Defence Council Enzo Rondinelli
Accelerant on Skin Post Fire – A presentation examining recent research conducted at the Ontario Police College utilizing various materials, gasoline and pig carcasses, Including the results of laboratory examinations
Gasoline in Lung Tissue and Heart Blood – A presentation examining recent research conducted at the Ontario Police College where pig carcasses were exposed to gasoline and gasoline vapours prior to being ignited. The results obtained after necropsy were examined – Presented by Greg Olson, MSc; and Kevin Pahor, MSc; Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management
Advanced photography for FIO (Forensic Identification Officer) – Techniques and concepts including advanced metering, lighting difficult surfaces, using remote flash, using multiple “pops” and gelling the strobe for both practical and creative lighting – Presented by Jason DiMichele & Jennifer Ford Photo Imaging Technicians Toronto Police Service
Processing Tips for Marihuana Grow Labs – Gathering evidence within the often dangerous and high humidity environment of an illegal Marihuana Grow Lab – Presented by Wade Knaap and Jessica Piekny
Case Studies: Lac Megantic and L’Isle Verte A presentation of the logistical issues and evidentiary barriers presented by large scale disasters – Presented by Sergeant Luc Gagnon Surete du Quebec
Advanced Fire Cause Determination Investigation Course
Office of the Fire Marshal
February 18-19, 2015
2-day training course to support the certification process under NFPA 1033.
Topics included: Case Review – A Failure Analysis, Fire Investigation – Sterling Trucks – Public Safety, Computer Fire Modelling, Fire Alarm Systems, Vehicle Fire Scene Examination, and Explosion Investigation.
Expert Forensic Evidence in Criminal Proceedings
A joint program of the Centre for Forensic Science and Medicine at the University of Toronto and Osgoode Professional Development
January 16, 2015
1-day training seminar covering topics including; New Developments in the Jurisprudence on Expert Testimony – Presented by Jeffrey R. Manishen, The Hon. Justice Michael Fairburn, The Hon. Justice David Paciocco
New Developments in Forensic Pathology as a Prototype for Other Forensic Disciplines – Presented by Michael S. Pollanen, MD, Ph.D, FRCPath, DMJ (Path), Kristopher S. Cunningham, MD, Ph.D, Charis Kepron, MD, MSc, FRCPC, John R. Fernandes, MDCM, FRCSC, FRCPC
Distinguishing between Science and Pseudo Science – Presented by Michelle Shouldice, Med, MD, FRCPC, FAAP, Dr. Kathy Gruspier, PhD, J.D., Jonathan Newman
Issues in Obtaining an Expert’s Opinion – Presented by Mark J. Sandler, Scott C. Hutchison, Robin Flumerfelt, Toby H. Rose, MD, FRCPC
Ethics and Professional Responsibility Issues – Presented by The Hon. Justice Michael Fairburn, Marie Henein, Michelle Shouldice, Med, MD, FRCPC, FAAP
Experts in the Media – Presented by Steven A. Skurka, Jeffrey R. Manishen, Richard Crouse
Keynote Speaker: James Lockyer, A Case Study – How Forensic Science Came to the Rescue
Advanced Fire Cause Determination Investigation Course
Office of the Fire Marshal
January 13–14, 2015
2-day training course to support the certification process under NFPA 1033.
Topics included Advanced Fire Dynamics, Application of Evidence Based Hypotheses. 3 Forms of Combustion, Smoldering, Open Flame & Explosive Combustion. 4 Stages of Fire, Incipient, Fire Growth, Steady State, Decay. Flashover. Post flashover ventilation effects, Smoldering vs. Flaming Combustion. Legal challenges to the Investigator.
Advanced Fire Cause Determination Investigation Course
Office of the Fire Marshal
December 9–10, 2014
2-day training course to support the certification process under NFPA 1033.
Topics included scene examination and documentation, Case review, TSSA case review, Incendiary Fires.
OFMEM Annual Fall Training
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
November 24-28, 2014
5 day training seminar covering topics including, Corporate overview, Amalgamation of the Office of the Fire Marshal and the Office of Emergency Management Ontario, Fire Investigation Reporting System update, Update to the Ontario Fire Code, Information session on Vulnerable Occupancy Residences, Ministry of Natural Recourses – Petroleum Operations Section update on ground storage of natural gas and other petroleum products.
Advanced Fire Cause Determination Investigation Course
Office of the Fire Marshal, Centre for Forensic Sciences
November 18-19, 2014
2-day training course to support the certification process under NFPA 1033. Topics included basic fire science, Demonstrations and practical exercises, tour of the CFS and introduction of the tests and testing methods available to the Office of the Fire Marshall, Case Law review, Case study, Documentation including note taking, scene photography.
Investigation of Gas and Electric Appliance Fires
Benton Harbor, Michigan
November 2– 7, 2014
Intensive 4-day, in-lab, hands-on program for fire investigators. Learn how appliances and electrical components work, fail and cause fires. Spent four days with Fire Findings’ experts on-site in their forensic laboratory. Examined actual appliances and appliance components that have failed, causing fires. Witnessed fire-causing demonstrations involving, Gas furnaces, gas water heaters, gas and electric clothes dryers, dishwashers, ranges and microwaves, refrigerators, toasters, space heaters and other small appliances. Presented by Jack Sanderson (Fire Investigator), James Finneran (appliance failures) and Nathan Dwyer (electrical expert).
Advanced Fire Investigations – Toronto Arson Task Force
Toronto Fire Academy – Toronto, Ontario
October 14-15, 2014
2-day training seminar presented by Dr. John DeHann covering: Sources of Ignition, Low Voltage Devices, How the Human Body Reacts to Fire, Case Studies involving Wrongful Convictions, and Serial Arsonists.
NFPA 1033 Fire Investigator Course
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
July 14-18, 2014
5- day training course covering topics including: Roles and responsibilities pertaining to the Fire Protection and Prevention Act, 1997; Roles and responsibilities of OFM personnel, and OFM expertise available; Roles and responsibilities of the various agencies; Scientific Method; Fire Scene Safety and Security; Basic chemistry of fire; Basic Building Construction and Basic Building Systems; Basic Electricity; Investigative Process; Scene Security; Scene documentation; Evidence collection and preservation; Debris removal and scene reconstruction; Origin and Cause Analysis; Explosion dynamics; Vehicle fires.
OFMEM Annual Spring Training
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
June 2-June 6, 2014
5-day training seminar covering topics including Integrated Risk Module and Vulnerable Occupancies; Emotional Survival For Law Enforcement (Dr. Gilmartin); OFC transition to NFPA; Review of changes to NFPA 921; Fire Dynamics and Heat Release Rate Calculations – Four 12×12 burn cells were evaluated for fuel load and ventilation conditions. Calculations estimating required heat energy to cause flashover were conducted; and a hypotheses on fire development and spread were articulated. The four cells were then ignited and conditions allowed to develop for 90 seconds past flashover (600°C) or 15 minutes. Each cell then evaluated and compared to hypotheses.
OFMEM Training
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
May 26, 2014
Live Burn Cell & Vehicle Tests
Presented by OFMEM Personnel
Conduct test burns of 12” x 12” burn cells, each equipped with household furniture. Introduce fire through various means. I.e. Smouldering Cigarette, Volatile Liquid, Application of open flame, Firework material.
Observe fire patterns post-flashover. Evaluate fire patterns to “reverse” engineer the fire.
Vehicle fire involving the intentional application of open flame to combustible material placed within the vehicle. Evaluate the resulting fire patterns.
OFMEM Block Training, Midhurst
December 2, 2013 to February 18, 2014
Topics included: Corporate Office and Vehicle Administration. Practical and theoretical training in Basic Fire Chemistry; Basic Fire Dynamics; Basic Explosion Dynamics; Scientific Method; Origin Determination; Cause Determination; Flashover and Ventilation; Scene Management; Fire Scene Safety; Note Taking; Report Writing; Digital Photography; Fire Protection and Prevention Act; The Ontario Fire Code; Fire Safety Issues; Predominant Purpose and Incident Command. Lessons were presented both in a classroom and on scene at fire grounds and through District Office self-study.
CFI Trainer – International Association of Arson Investigators
Online training (0n-going) covering topics related to Fire and Explosion Investigations, including;
Police Related Training
Police Officer from 1977 to 2006
Received all relevant basic and advanced training for assigned duties and responsibilities including:
R vs Duku, Ontario Superior Court of Justice, Brampton
Trial – Testified
Justice D. Baltman
Charge: Arson – Damage Property, Mischief Over $5000
Date declared – 10 June 2024
R vs Grubb, Ontario Superior Court of Justice – Guelph
Trial – Testified
Justice C. Peterson
Charge: Arson – Disregard Life, Arson – Damage Property
Date declared – 14 December 2023
R vs Berbe, Ontario Court of Justice, Youth Court – Elliot Lake
Trial – Testified
Justice D. Patterson
Charge: Arson – Damage to Property
Date declared – 30 November 2023
R vs Duku, Ontario Court of Justice – Brampton
Preliminary Hearing – Testified
Justice K. Mcleod
Charge: Arson – Damage to Property
Date declared – 15 November 2023
R vs Meyers, Ontario Court of Justice – Windsor
Preliminary Hearing – Testified (Ongoing)
Justice S. Pratt
Charge: Arson – Property x 2
Date declared – 07 September 2023
R vs Keys, Ontario Court of Justice – Goderich
Trial – Testified
Superior Court Justice M. Garson
Charge: Arson – Disregard Life, Arson – Property
Date declared – 20 April 2023
R vs Coquard, Ontario Court of Justice – Guelph
Preliminary Hearing – Testified
Justice J. Redgate
Charge: Arson – Disregard Life
Date declared: 15 February 2023
R vs Keys, Ontario Court of Justice – Goderich
Preliminary Hearing – Testified
Justice T.G. Macdonald
Charge: Arson – Disregard Life, Arson – Property
Date Declared – 30 March 2022
R vs Morgan, Ontario Court of Justice – Windsor (Via Zoom)
Preliminary Hearing – Testified
Justice G. Campbell
Charge: Arson – Damage to Property
Date Declared – 11th August 2021
R vs McCulloch, Ontario Court of Justice – Woodstock
Trial – Testified
Justice GRAHAM
Charge: Arson – Damage to Property
Date Declared – 23rd September 2019
R vs WARREN, Superior Court of Justice – Windsor
(Legal Argument) – Testified
Justice G.J. VERBEEN
Charge: Arson – Damage to Property
Dangerous Offender Hearing Pending
Date Declared – 20th December 2017
R vs COMEAU, Superior Court of Justice – Sarnia
Preliminary Hearing – Testified
Justice AUSTEN
Charge: Arson – Damage to Property, Sexual Assault, Criminal Harassment, Mischief Over $5000
Date Declared – 27th October 2016
R vs SYED, Ontario Court of Justice – Toronto
(Preliminary Hearing) – Testified
Justice CREWE
Charge: Arson Endangering Life
Date Declared – 21st January 2016
R vs KUPEC, Superior Court of Justice – Sarnia
Trial – Testified
Justice DESOTTI
Charge: Attempt Murder X 2
Date Declared – 28th October 2015
Niagara Arson Committee – Case Study, “Small fires need attention to”
Thursday the 14th of November 2024
OFM case study of multiple small fires investigated over 2 days at a residential dwelling. Outlining how the Scientific Method and a Systematic Scene Examination can lead to a positive outcome.
Office of the Fire Marshal – Ontario Fire College NFPA 1033 Fire Investigator Course
Markdale Fire Department Regional Training Centre
April 25th to 28th
Attend and assist the OFC Instructors with preparation and ignition of burn cells. Assist students with the examination of burn cells, origin determination, ignition sequence, report writing and court testimony.
Warwick and Watford Township Fire Departments
March 13th, 2024 – 25 Firefighters present.
Presentation on the OFM – FIS section on origin, cause, and circumstance investigations. Who we are and what we do. Responsibilities of the Fire Department and Police if involved.
NFPA 1033 Fire Investigator Course – Ontario Police College
October 23rd to 27th, 2023
Assistant Instructor – 20 Students
Online training course followed by 4 days of practical application of lessons learned. Excavation of burn cell to determine area of origin and ignition sequence. Understand fire spread and methods of heat transfer. Prepare a written technical report and present findings to class. Participate in a mock trial to present evidence.
Centre of Forensic Sciences, Ontario Forensic Pathology Fellows
May 9th, 2023
Participated as a panel member for the Court Testimony Training Day as organized by the Forensic Pathology Residency Training Program and the University of Toronto. Panel members included Dr. Andrew Williams, Program Director, Forensic Pathology Residency Training, Madam Justice Rita J. Maxell, Ontario Superior Court of Justice, Ms. Marie Henein, Partner, Henein Hutchison Robitaille LLP, Dr. Paul Kadar, Pediatrician, Suspected Child Abuse and Neglect (SCAN) Team, Dr. Daryl Mayers, Forensic Toxicologist, Centre of Forensic Sciences, Dr. Toby Rose, Forensic Pathologist, Ontario Forensic Pathology Service, Mr. Mike Newell, Deputy Crown Attorney, Durham Region, Mr. James Allen, Fire Investigator, Office of the Fire Marshal, Fire Investigation Services. Seminar included mock qualification as an expert witness and subsequent testimony of Fire Investigators, Toxicologists and Pathologists.
Centre of Forensic Sciences, Ontario Forensic Pathology Fellows, Ontario Forensic Anthropology Services
November 1st, 2022
Fatal fire investigations, Office of the Fire Marshal, What we do, How we do it and why – Exhumation of human remains.
Broadcast Online – Multiple participants.
St. Clair Township Fire Department – Command Staff
St. Clair Fire Department – Station #2
26th May 2022
Presentation to command staff on the operations of the OFM. Criteria for reporting a fire or explosion. Included a case study.
FIRS Training – New Hires
Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management
27th April 2021
Full-day presentation to the newly hired Fire Investigators on the Fire Investigation Reporting System (FIRS) utilized by the FIS section of the OFMEM.
Associate Instructor – NFPA 1033 Fire Investigator Course
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
30th September to 4th October 2019
5 day training course provided to Fire Prevention and Inspection Officers. Topics instructed include – Roles and responsibilities of Office of the Fire Marshal, Fire and Police Investigators, fire scene safety and security, chemistry of fire, fire scene documentation, the investigative process, explosion dynamics, smoldering fires, origin and cause analysis, building services, electricity, evidence collection and preservation, debris removal and scene reconstruction, practical demonstrations and examinations.
LaSalle Fire and Rescue Services
May 30th, 2019
Presentation on note-taking for firefighters – Members of the LaSalle Fire department.
Halton Regional Police Service
May 2nd, 2019
Presentation to Officers of the HRPS on the OFMEM, who we are, what we do.
Bluewater Fire Department
March 20th & May 1st, 2019
Presentation on note-taking for firefighters – Members of the Bluewater Fire Department.
Southwestern Ontario Municipal Fire Prevention Officers Association
March 20th, 2019
Presented to Fire Prevention Officers from various Fire Departments located in southwestern Ontario. Subjects included an introduction to the OFMEM and a presentation on note-taking for firefighters.
Sarnia Police Service – Criminal Investigation Branch
November 16th, 2017
Presented to the Police Investigators assigned to the Criminal Investigation Bureau. Subjects included an introduction to the OFMEM as well as fire origin and cause determination.
Central Huron Fire Department – Clinton
October 23rd, 2017
Presentation to Volunteer Firefighters and Command Staff of the Central Huron Fire Department. Subjects covered included note-taking for Firefighters.
Associate Instructor – NFPA 1033 Fire Investigator Course
Ontario Police College, Aylmer
23rd to the 27th of October 2017
5-day training course provided to Fire Prevention and Inspection Officers. Topics instructed include – Roles and responsibilities of Office of the Fire Marshal, Fire and Police Investigators*, fire scene safety and security*, chemistry of fire, fire scene documentation*, the investigative process*, explosion dynamics, smoldering fires, origin and cause analysis, building services, electricity, evidence collection and preservation*, debris removal and scene reconstruction, practical demonstrations and examinations*. (*Instructed)
Associate Instructor – NFPA 1033 Fire Investigator Course
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
28th August to 1st September 2017
5-day training course provided to Fire Prevention and Inspection Officers. Topics instructed include – Roles and responsibilities of Office of the Fire Marshal, Fire and Police Investigators*, fire scene safety and security*, chemistry of fire, fire scene documentation, the investigative process*, explosion dynamics, smoldering fires, origin and cause analysis*, building services, electricity, evidence collection and preservation*, debris removal and scene reconstruction, practical demonstrations and examinations*. (*Instructed)
Lambton Shores Fire Department – Forest Fire Department
14th & 15th July 2017
2 day training seminar including a live burn training exercise involving a 12’ X 12’ burn cell. 1 day in class training. Topics covered included Origin and Cause Determination, Ventilation controlled fires, when and why to contact the OFMEM, Fire Science.
Norfolk County Fire and Rescue Service
10th June 2017
Presentation to Volunteer Firefighters and Command Staff of the Norfolk County Fire Service. Subjects covered included; the OFMEM and when to advise of a fire call, Note taking for Firefighters and Fire Scene Preservation.
Canadian Association of Special Investigation Units (CASIU)
18th May 2017
Joint presentation with F.I. Andrea GAYNOR to association members and various Insurance Investigators on the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management Fire Investigation Services.
Ontario Electrical League – Elgin Chapter
09 February 2017
Presentation to Chapter members on the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management Fire Investigation Services.
South Huron Fire Department – Exeter Station
21st November 2016
Presentation to Volunteer Command Officers on note-taking and Roles and Responsibilities OFMEM
Lead Instructor, OFMEM
Condensed Fire Cause Determination Course
Dutton-Dunwich Fire Department
– 26th, 29th & 30th September 2016
1 day live burn with 5 separate demonstration burns, 2 day course instruction concentrating on – Roles and responsibilities of the Office of the Fire marshal, Fire and Police Investigators, Fire scene safety and security, chemistry of fire, the investigative process, smouldering fires, origin and cause analysis, evidence collection and preservation, debris removal and scene reconstruction.
Associate Instructor, Ontario Fire College – NFPA 1033 Fire Investigator Course
Ontario Fire College, Gravenhurst
28th August to 2nd September 201
5 day training course provided to Fire Prevention and Inspection Officers. Topics instructed include – Roles and responsibilities of Office of the Fire Marshal, Fire and Police Investigators*, fire scene safety and security*, chemistry of fire, fire scene documentation, the investigative process*, explosion dynamics, smoldering fires, origin and cause analysis, building services, electricity, evidence collection and preservation*, debris removal and scene reconstruction, practical demonstrations and examinations. (*Instructed)
Woodstock Police Service
Police Headquarters
7th April 2016
Presentation to Police and Auxiliary Police Officers on the role of the OFMEM.
Dutton-Dunwich Fire Department
Dutton Station
1st December 2015
Presentation to Volunteer Firefighters on note taking and fire scene preservation.
Lambton Shores Fire Department
Forrest Station
12th March 2015
Presentation to Volunteer Firefighters on note-taking and fire scene assessment
Westerfeld College
London Ontario
21st July 2014
Presentation to Police Foundations Program Students on the role of the Office of the Fire Marshal and Emergency Management and how the office works with Police Services and the Judicial System.
