How many steps are involved in the preliminary scene assessment and exterior examination?

The correct answer indicates that the preliminary scene assessment and exterior examination involve 7 steps. This assessment process is crucial in fire investigations as it establishes a systematic approach to understanding the scene of a fire incident. Each of the 7 steps is designed to gather necessary information, evaluate the environment, identify potential hazards, and determine the cause of the fire.

This process often includes phases such as securing the scene, identifying witnesses, looking for signs of fire dynamics, and evaluating any potential evidence. The thoroughness of this approach is key to ensuring that all relevant factors are considered, which can greatly influence the outcome of the investigation. It's essential for fire investigators to follow these steps diligently to create a comprehensive assessment of the situation, leading to accurate conclusions regarding the fire's origin and cause.