University conference explores a burning issue

Experts from around the globe will meet at an international Fire & Arson Investigation conference, to be held at the University of Teesside from Tuesday 27 January - Thursday 29 January. The conference has been jointly organised by the University, Cleveland Fire Brigade and Cleveland Police.

The conference gives those who have been tasked with combating arson the opportunity to share their experiences and knowledge, and listen to presentations from a range of international speakers.

Dr Julie Mennell, Assistant Director in the University’s School of Science & Technology, said: “The conference is very much a collaborative venture. It’s aimed at those in the public sector who reduce the risk of arson in society, such as the Police and local authorities. It’s a good opportunity for them to be brought up to date with strategies being adopted elsewhere.”

Media opportunity: There will be a photo opportunity at 1pm on Wednesday 28 January in Room IC1.43b, first floor of the Innovation & Virtual Reality Centre, entrance off Stephenson Street, Middlesbrough. Present will be USA Special Agents Robert Schaal and Danny Dwight, who are both from the Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms Bureau (ATF). Robert Schaal’s conference lecture will examine the internal training requirements of the ATF, while Danny Dwight will speak about ATF explosives training. Also present will be Sub Officer Chris Clarke from the West Yorkshire Fire Service, who is to present a workshop entitled K9s in Action, which explores the history and use of dogs for fire investigation. Chris will be accompanied by his own working dog, Dex.

---