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INFOCUS Podcast kicks off Season 2 with an explosive episode covering the devastating Santa Ana wind-driven fires affecting Southern California. Hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens dive deep into the current situation, with Scott sharing his recent appearance on NPR discussing the fires, while Chasity's TikTok video addressing fire speculation goes viral with over 170,000 views. The episode provides fascinating insights into wildland fire behavior, addressing common misconceptions about fire patterns and debunking conspiracy theories about mysterious "government lasers."

The hosts tackle complex fire investigation topics, explaining how wind patterns and building materials affect fire spread, particularly focusing on why some houses burn while others remain untouched during wildland fires. They share compelling examples from recent cases, including how aluminum components in modern vehicles melt at specific temperatures, helping investigators understand fire patterns. The episode also features a delightful international twist as they sample British snacks brought by a visiting fire investigator from England, adding a light-hearted moment to balance the serious discussion.

Looking ahead, the hosts announce exciting updates about upcoming conferences, including a special appearance by Dr. Greg Gorbett teaching fire dynamics at the California Conference of Arson Investigators in February. They also preview an intriguing presentation on BHO (Butane Honey Oil) labs by Lauren Gruber and Elizabeth Buck, addressing the evolving challenges investigators face with these facilities. The episode wraps up with a celebration of their growing international audience and reaching 70 five-star Apple Podcast reviews. As a testament to their commitment to education, the hosts encourage listeners to continue reaching out with questions, whether they're newcomers to the field or experienced investigators seeking guidance.

PAPRS unit information : Tim Costa- Tim@canbesafe.com
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🎄 Fire Investigation INFOCUS Podcast - Episode 20: Christmas Special 🎄

- A festive episode released on Christmas Day, featuring hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens
- Special celebration of reaching top 25% of all Buzzsprout podcasts and hitting 63 Apple Podcast reviews. Goal is 100 reviews before June!
- Discussion of recent fire investigation cases, including Scott's experience with 8 fires in 36 hours

**Technical Deep Dive:**
- Detailed analysis of Christmas tree fire hazards
- Dry trees can reach 3,000-5,000 kilowatts peak heat release rate
- Water-maintained trees only reach ~6.7 kilowatts
- Scientific breakdown using NIST fire calorimetry database

**Key Updates:**
- Scott's department moving forward with CleanSpace respiratory protection equipment
- Discussion of technical spelling variations in NFPA 921 ("ignitable" vs. "ignitible")
- Introduction of Season 2 starting January 15th, 2024

**Fan Mail Corner:**
- Questions answered about gas detection equipment for new investigators
- Feedback from listeners in Ottawa, Canada and Tacoma, Washington
- Discussion of mentorship in the field

**Safety Message:**
- Special holiday PSA about Christmas tree fire safety
- Emphasis on proper tree maintenance and watering

**Word of the Episode:**
- "Inductive Reasoning" - Analysis of its role in the scientific method for fire investigation

Next Episode: Season 2, Episode 1 releasing January 15th, 2024! And a fun tune to close it out. Water your tree! 🎄

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In Episode 19 hosts Scott Kuhlman and Chasity Owens welcome special guest Investigator Tom Beers, a firefighter and fire investigator with the Cleveland Heights Fire Department and board member for the Ohio Chapter of the International Association of Arson Investigators. The episode kicks off with a delightfully entertaining discussion about regional accents and dialect differences, from the peculiarities of Midwestern pronunciations to the great "pop vs. soda" debate!

The conversation takes an exciting turn as Tom shares his journey from aspiring lawyer to firefighter, sparked by a chance encounter during a college EMS ride-along. He describes his fascinating path through military service, the Dayton Fire Academy, and eventually to Cleveland Heights, where he's served for over 20 years. Tom then dives into his groundbreaking work drafting new Ohio legislation for fire investigators' firearms qualifications, updating laws that hadn't been touched since 1953!

The hosts and Tom share their experience at the Ohio conference, where Scott and Chasity taught a packed session on AI applications in fire investigation. They also geek out over cutting-edge forensic technology, including an impressive demonstration of a new UV flashlight for detecting ignitable liquids. A highlight of their Ohio visit was an impromptu two-hour tour of the state's forensic lab, which left them thoroughly impressed with the facility's 7-10 day turnaround times and sophisticated capabilities.

The episode wraps up with heartwarming stories of podcast fans they met at the conference, a review of the Evidence Collection Technician (ECT) certification process, and their signature segment "Can You Use It in a Sentence?" where Tom challenges listeners with the term "inductive reasoning." From accents to arson investigation, this episode perfectly blends education, entertainment, and the passion these investigators bring to their field.

Be sure to catch the next episode in two weeks, where they'll unpack the meaning of "inductive reasoning" and continue bringing you the latest insights into fire investigation!

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If you enjoyed the episode, give us 5 stars, hit the follow button, and subscribe on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and anywhere you are listening in from.

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