Following a fire, documentation becomes critically important almost immediately. Depending on the severity of the event, including the extent of property damage, financial loss, injuries, or fatalities, several parties may become involved in the investigation and recovery process. These can include fire investigators, regulatory authorities (Police, and ESA, Enbridge Gas), engineers, insurance adjusters, and legal representatives.

One of the first requests made by investigators is typically for the building's maintenance records and the most current version of the Fire Safety Plan. Additional documentation often includes fire alarm history logs, fire alarm and sprinkler inspection reports, deficiency reports, service and monitoring records, fire drill documentation, staff training records, and records demonstrating that identified deficiencies were corrected in a timely manner.

The purpose of this documentation review is to determine whether the building's fire protection systems were operational at the time of the incident and whether all required inspections, testing, and maintenance activities had been completed in accordance with applicable codes and standards. Investigators will also assess whether previously identified deficiencies had been addressed, whether staff had received appropriate fire and life safety training, and whether established emergency procedures were followed during the event.