Burn to learn, capture to create: Advancing fire investigation training with digital twins

At Firewise UK Learning Academy, the philosophy is simple: Burn to learn, capture to create. Real-world fire scenes, including vehicle and structural burns, are used to immerse trainees in practical, evidence-based learning. However, Martin and his team recognise the environmental, logistical and health challenges of live burns. To address these, they harness technologies such as 360-degree imaging and LiDAR scanning to create digital twins of fire scenes.

These digital models allow investigators and trainees to revisit and analyse scenes virtually, long after the physical evidence is gone. The result is a safer, more sustainable and highly effective training environment, where proficiency can be tested and developed without repeated environmental impact or exposure to contaminants.

A highlight of the academy’s commitment to innovation is the annual electric vehicle fire investigation course in Norway. This unique event brings together vehicle manufacturers, public service investigators and insurers for hands-on learning with real vehicle burns. During the most recent course, Leica Geosystems Public Safety & Forensics team joined the course, capturing the entire process with LiDAR scanning technology. This collaboration enabled the creation of a growing library of 3D models of burned electric vehicles, which are now used for immersive training and virtual reality experiences.

Firewise UK Learning Academy also runs routine vehicle fire investigation courses throughout the year, always focusing on maximising the learning value of each burn while minimising environmental impact. By capturing and documenting every scenario, the academy ensures that training is both sustainable and effective.

Martin’s commitment to safety extends beyond the classroom, emphasising best practice in contamination control and health protection for all investigators. Through innovation and collaboration, Firewise UK Learning Academy is shaping the future of fire investigation, making learning safer, more accessible and environmentally responsible.

Customer: Martin Lown BEM, IAAI-CFI, MFireInv, MIFireE, IMIL2
Director/Lead Tutor
FireWise UK Learning Academy