Central Coast Claims Association
photo of russ auker photo of wrecked volvo group photo photo of ray depa and russ auker
Russ Auker gave a thorough presentation on vehicle fire investigations. Slide shot of a burned-out Volvo smashed by a big-rig. Real-life case in which Auker was actually commissioned to “determine cause” of fire. Deanie Pearson shared the pleasure of her mom, who had just flown in from Kansas City. Ray Depa presented Russ Auker with a plaque in thanks.

Real Life CSI: Vehicle Fires Investigations Explored
By Bryan Harrison
Click on the photos to see a larger version of each

The March 16, 2006 meeting of the CCCA featured lifetime fire fighter and investigator, Russ Auker, of Ron Hall & Associates. Mr. Auker, a well-noted expert on vehicle fire investigations, shared his expertise with the group on common causes of these types of fires, along with some myths and misconceptions out there.
One big problem currently being frequently seen, he explained, stems from faulty cruise control switches on Ford vehicles. These electronic switches are mounted to the master brake cylinder, which heats up with use. One loose spark can make for a bad situation.

Ford has apparently redesigned this system in 2005 vehicles, but Auker recommends that you disconnect your cruise control if you drive a Ford.

As for Intentional fire vs. accidental, he stated, “I just view it as a fire,” noting that the evidence, much like on the popular TV program, CSI, tells the story.

Auker uses the services of an independent lab to help determine the condition of an engine prior to the burn. Clues of arson can include an engine block with water in the oil, and such. A compression test of the engine cylinders is helpful in making such determination, as well. Engine blocks typically survive a burn, as they are designed to withstand extreme temperatures.

Alternators “do cause fires,” he stated. “But, they’re usually isolated,” he explained. “Shut the car off and you stop the energy source.”

A former fire chief for the Folsom Fire Department, Mr. Auker’s presentation was thorough, covering a wide variety of vehicle fires he’s dealt with in his 31 plus years of service.

photo of Robin Fawkes and Dawn Decampo
Robin Fawkes with Dawn Decampo.

Thanks to All Our February
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American Technologies, Inc.
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Custom Commercial Fabric Restoration
Dietz & Associates, Inc.
EFI Global
Fabric Restoration Service Team
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Marriott Execustay
Restoration Management Company
ServiceMaster
Tucknott Electric Company
Vanderbuilt Construction

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Leprechaun Bob Tucknott, spreads the St. Patty's Day cheer.

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Julie Laughery, of Tucknott Electric Company

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Kirsten Miks, of Har-Bro Construction and Restoration

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Bill Weber, of Four Star Restoration.

photo of ccca vp Ann Marie Yadegar photo of Russ Auker photo of Karla Hall photo of Ray Depa
CCCA VP, Ann Marie Yadegar, ran the March meeting. Russ Auker shows a common cause of Ford vehicles burning: the cruise control switch on the master cylinder. Karla Hall, of Ron Hall and Associates, assisted Mr. Auker in his presentation. CCCA Speakers Co-Chair, Ray Depa, introduced Russ Auker.