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Fire Investigations

Determining Origin and Cause

When a fire occurs in our community, extinguishing the flames is only the first step. Understanding exactly where and how a fire started is critical to preventing future emergencies, improving building and fire codes, and ensuring public safety.

The Hanson Fire Department conducts thorough investigations into the origin and cause of fires within the town. To ensure the highest level of expertise, several of our department members have undergone specialized fire investigation training, working in tandem with specially trained officers from the Hanson Police Department.

Fire investigation is a complex science that often requires diverse resources and specialized skills. While the Hanson Fire Department leads the initial investigation, we operate as part of a multi-agency collaborative effort

Hanson Fire Department Building

Depending on the severity, complexity, or circumstances of a fire, we routinely investigate alongside:

  • Massachusetts State Troopers assigned to the State Fire Marshalls Office
  • Hanson Police Department
  • Plymouth County District Attorney’s Office
  • Plymouth County Sheriff’s Department Bureau of Criminal Investigation (BCI) Unit

By pooling the resources, technology, and forensic expertise of these local, county, and state agencies, we ensure that every fire in Hanson is investigated thoroughly, accurately, and professionally.

Hanson Fire Department Building

Report Suspicious Activity (Arson Tip Line)

Community vigilance plays a vital role in keeping Hanson safe. If you have information regarding a past fire, suspicious fire activity, or suspected arson, we rely on your help.

If you witness a fire in progress or an immediate threat to life and property, dial 9-1-1 immediately.

For all other tips, you can report information completely anonymously through the Massachusetts Arson Watch Reward Program:

  • Arson Watch Hotline: 1-800-682-9229
  • Reward: Information that helps prevent an arson crime or leads to an arrest and conviction may be eligible for a reward of up to $5,000.

For local, non-urgent information, you can also contact the Hanson Fire Department Investigation Unit directly at (781) 293-9571.  All information can be kept strictly confidential.