What issue can arise from labeling an "irregular pattern" based on visual appearance alone?

Labeling an "irregular pattern" solely based on visual appearance can lead to errors being made. This is because the interpretation of fire patterns relies heavily on a combination of visual cues and an understanding of the fire's behavior, the materials involved, and the environment in which the fire occurred. When investigators jump to conclusions based only on what they see without considering all relevant factors—such as the materials’ characteristics, fire dynamics, or other evidence like accelerants—there is a higher chance of misunderstanding the actual fire dynamics.

Relying strictly on visual assessments may not account for other variables that influence fire patterns, which can lead to misinterpretation of the scene. This can ultimately misguide the investigation and result in inaccurate conclusions about how the fire started or spread, potentially affecting safety assessments, legal outcomes, or even future fire prevention strategies. Understanding that fire investigation is a complex process that requires a holistic evaluation of all evidence can prevent these kinds of errors.