VR technology is assisting fire scene investigation
Summary
The technology is also gaining traction across Europe, with plans for a demonstration at the European Network of Forensic Science Institutes (ENFSI) fire and explosion investigation working group meeting later this year. Professor Niamh Nic Daeid, Director of LRCFS and leader of the work, said: “Introducing new technologies into the justice system has to be done carefully so that the scientific standards required by the courts are met. Steven Corrigan, SFRS Group Commander, said: “Exercises such as this controlled burn are important and hugely worthwhile for fire investigators to train in a unique and dynamic environment. “This novel approach created by LRCFS has now been adopted by SPA Forensic Services, through significant work delivered by Police Scotland Digital Division.” The VR tool was previously trialled by SFRS and SPA Forensic Services using footage LRCFS researchers obtained while working with Danish Police fire investigators, who created controlled fires within a variety of buildings in Denmark in a collaborative project with the University of Dundee team. The use of immersive technology has been shown to significantly increase the number of investigators able to determine crucial factors related to the origin and development of fires.