Arson is the intentional act of starting a fire or using a bomb to harm someone. Accelerants like gasoline and lighters are commonly used. Law enforcement can detect accelerant fumes and residue, making it easier to identify arsonists. The 9/11 terrorist attacks were a notable example of arson, resulting in thousands of deaths.
Arson occurs when someone intentionally causes something to burn. This is usually done by starting a fire or using a fire-starting device, although many laws also categorize bombings as arson. Arson is when fire or a bomb is used to intentionally harm someone. This type of arson is generally considered aggravated arson. Firefighters and police departments use a number of methods to determine the cause of fires and whether they were the result of an arson attack.
Arsons can be started in a number of ways, including the use of an accelerant, which is usually a highly flammable liquid or gas. Gasoline is one of the most common accelerants used during an arson fire. Other common liquid accelerators include kerosene, oil, thinner and alcohol. These types of accelerants are often harmless enough on their own. However, when a spark or flame is ignited, a dangerous fire can occur.
Arsonists usually use a lighter to start a fire. They can often be something simple, like matches, a lighter or rags lit, or paper tossed on an accelerant. Sometimes, though, arsonists use shortened candles as starters, which take time to burn. The wiring of devices such as light switches and electrical wires can also be tampered with to cause sparks that ignite an accelerant or its fumes.
While accelerants and igniters make it much easier for an arsonist to start a fire, they also make it easier for law enforcement officers to determine that the fire was arson. Most accelerants have a distinct odor that investigators can often smell. Catalytic combustion detectors, as well as specially trained dogs, can also detect the presence of certain accelerant fumes. Many accelerators also leave a residue that can stain surfaces such as floors and walls. Traces of an accelerant used to start a fire can also be found on the clothing or hands of an arsonist.
One of the most famous arsons occurred in the United States on September 11, 2001, when terrorists hijacked four planes. Two were deliberately crashed into the World Trade Center in New York City, and one was crashed into the Pentagon in Washington, DC. After the crew and passengers attempted to recover the fourth plane, it crashed outside a small town in rural Pennsylvania.
As a result of the hijacking of these planes, approximately 3,000 people were killed. Most of the deaths are thought to have been caused by the fires and smoke caused by the impact. Additionally, hundreds of firefighters have died trying to control fires and save civilians.
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