Investigators use a variety of techniques and strategies to identify the source and cause of fires. They examine burn patterns, inspect debris at the scene, and interview victims and witnesses during the course of an investigation. The investigators' primary goal is to determine the cause and origin of any fire that requires their response. They do this by conducting an examination of the fire scene and then carefully evaluating all pertinent information gathered during an investigation. If the fire event is determined to be a criminal act, AFD investigators are also responsible for conducting the criminal investigation of the fire and making subsequent arrest of the person(s) responsible.

Some of the other investigative resources that AFD uses during an investigation include a Texas-licensed, on-staff polygraph examiner, and an ATF-certified accelerant detection canine named "Pearl" who can locate traces of ignitable liquids and other materials that indicate that a fire may have been intentionally set. AFD investigators have an outstanding record of determining fire causes. In 2008, causes were determined for more than 83 percent of structure and automobile fires, and arrests were made for 32 percent of fires determined to be arson.