Among motives for arson are vandalism, collection of insurance money, and concealment of other crimes. A fire is suspicious if there are indications it may have been set deliberately, if it was preceded by threats or by similar fires, or if premises are found unlocked or goods were removed prior to the fire. The officer at the scene should look for the following signs of arson: ignition devices, trailers (cotton waste, rags), accelerants, and clean or unburned areas left by stock on combustible areas. Additional observations of persons in the area, the occupants, the characteristics of the fire and flames, and of structural damage can be made outside the premises. Collecting, packaging, and preserving evidence are very important to a complete and proper investigation. Safeguarding procedures must be undertaken by the officer in charge, and no one should be allowed on the premises until the fire investigator arrives. Because continuity of evidence is as important as its collection and preservation, evidence should not be removed from its sealed container unless absolutely necessary. Evidence should be submitted to the fire investigator as soon as possible. Photographs are supplied.