If the investigation reveals that fuel gas may be involved, the investigator should verify the ___.

In fire investigations where fuel gas is suspected to be involved, verifying the presence of an odorant is crucial. Most natural gas has an odorant added, typically mercaptan, which gives it a distinctive smell similar to rotten eggs. This addition is a safety measure to help detect leaks, as natural gas is otherwise odorless and colorless.

Identifying the presence of this odor is vital for several reasons. It not only helps establish whether gas was present at the scene but also indicates the potential for an explosive atmosphere or the severity of a leak. In situations where fuel gas is suspected, confirming this detail can inform further investigative steps, safety measures, and potential fire dynamics that could have contributed to the incident.

While examining the color, temperature, and pressure levels of the gas may provide useful information, they are not as directly relevant in establishing the immediate presence and potential hazards associated with fuel gas as the verification of an odorant.