What is a "trailer" in fire investigations?

In fire investigations, a "trailer" refers to a long trail of fast-burning material used to spread fire from one location to another. This technique is often associated with arson, where the perpetrator creates a path of combustible material to initiate flames in a specific area or direct the fire towards a target. The presence of a trailer can indicate intentionality behind the fire's spread and is a critical aspect for investigators to analyze during a fire scene examination.

This understanding emphasizes the nuances involved in fire behavior and the methods used by individuals to manipulate it. Investigators look for trailers as a significant piece of evidence in determining the origin and cause of a fire, which can greatly influence the case's outcome.