The investigator should keep in mind that the point of the leak may be ______ from the actual damage.

The assertion that the point of the leak may be remote from the actual damage underscores the importance of understanding that damage caused by leaks or other issues isn't always directly at the source. In fire investigation, this concept is crucial, as it helps investigators trace the origin of a fire and understand how it spread, especially in complex environments where multiple materials and factors can influence the damage observed.

For example, water leaks can travel along structural components, such as beams and wall cavities, leading to significant damage far from where the leak originated. This distance can complicate the investigation, as investigators may need to look beyond visible damage to accurately determine the causes and effects of the incident. Recognizing that the point of origin and the resultant damage can be remote encourages a more thorough examination of the entire area involved, leading to better conclusions about how the fire ignited and progressed.