What does empirical data refer to?

Empirical data refers to information gained through direct observation or experimentation. It is the foundation of scientific inquiry and is essential in fields such as fire and explosion investigations. This type of data is collected through measurements and observations, providing concrete evidence that can be analyzed to support conclusions or theories.

In the context of fire investigations, empirical data might include temperature readings, the presence and quantity of accelerants, physical evidence from the scene, or the results of fire modeling studies that are based on real-world observations and experiments. By relying on empirical data, investigators can draw more reliable conclusions about fire behavior and causation, as opposed to relying solely on anecdotal evidence, speculation, or theoretical models which do not have a basis in practical observation.