What should firefighters do to protect potential evidence found on scene?

Firefighters should keep potential evidence untouched and undisturbed to maintain the integrity of the scene. By doing so, they ensure that any clues, materials, or items that might be relevant to an investigation into the fire can be examined properly by investigators. Disturbing or altering the evidence can compromise its authenticity, making it difficult to ascertain crucial information about the cause of the fire or the circumstances surrounding it.

This practice is essential in any situation where evidence may need to be analyzed later, particularly in cases where foul play or negligence is suspected. Preserving the scene also allows for thorough documentation through photographs and sketches before any items are moved or altered. Only trained investigators should later collect and handle potential evidence to avoid interfering with its evidentiary value.