16. The primary source of information on fires involving malicious ignition is the FDR1 fire report form, used to compile the national fire statistics. It is very important that the information on most likely causes of fire given on the FDR1 is that which is assessed on the evidence available to the brigade at the time. The description "doubtful" should only be used (in this context) where malicious ignition is suspected but not established beyond reasonable doubt. This description should not be used to indicate general uncertainty about the cause of the fire. In such circumstances cause "not known" should be recorded if necessary but, where possible, the most likely cause on the evidence available should be given. Where further investigation of the fire establishes a cause different from that entered earlier on the FDR1 (for example "malicious ignition" rather than "doubtful"), Chief Officers are reminded that the change should be notified on an FDR2 form. Additional information may be recorded in the appropriate space for further information on the FDR1 form.

17. It is important that information relating to fires of doubtful origin is made available to both the operational and the fire prevention sides of the fire service. There are clear benefits to both sides in preserving a close liaison and sharing the recording of information: many brigades use such data to plot local trends and to alert local agencies (ie police and social services) and local business occupancies of particular risks. Such initiatives are to be encouraged. Further guidance on completing the FDR1 is given in Annex D.