Begin your project by discussing the facts surrounding the incident. The following items should be included:
The date and time of the incident. Also, discuss if the date and or time of day may have played any role in the outcome of the incident?
The type of structure and the occupancy type where the fire occurred.
Any weather conditions that may have been a factor.
How did the fire start and what factors contributed to its spread?
What was the fire department response to the incident?
How was the alarm turned in?
Was there any delay in reporting the fire or was there a delayed response by the fire department?
Any other significant issues with the fire department’s response such as inadequate staffing, distance to the incident, water supply issues, etc?
How many people died and how many people escaped and/or were saved?
What significant factors contributed to the loss of life? Considerations should include:
Overcrowding
Occupant panic
Lack of, or malfunctioning fire protection features
Inadequate/blocked exits
Combustible interior finishes
Extreme fire loads
Building construction features
Were there any fire prevention or code violations known prior to the fire and would better enforcement have changed the outcome of the fire?
What was the direct property loss valued at and what other economic factors may have been associated with the fire?
Historical Significance
After discussing the known facts of the fire as listed above, then discuss why this fire has historical significance. The following issues should be examined and discussed:
What made this fire significant? Was it strictly due to the large loss of life and or property, or were there other factors that made this a significant event in fire service history?
What were the lasting impacts of this fire? What was learned from the incident and what did this incident do to contribute to fire safety today?
Application of the Lessons Learned
Are there issues with fire and building codes that still need to be addressed to prevent a similar incident from occurring?
How would the features built into buildings today and available technology have changed the outcome of the fire?
