What does the term 'alligatoring' describe in fire investigation?

The term 'alligatoring' specifically refers to a particular burn pattern that occurs on surfaces such as wood or walls when exposed to intense heat during a fire. This phenomenon manifests as cracks or surface deformities resembling the skin of an alligator, hence the name. It is indicative of significant thermal damage and can provide investigators with vital information regarding the direction and intensity of the fire.

Understanding burn patterns like alligatoring helps fire investigators assess how a fire progressed and whether it might have been set intentionally. The presence of this type of damage suggests that the material was exposed to high enough temperatures to cause the surface to char and crack. In fire investigation, recognizing these patterns is crucial for linking evidence to the specific conditions and behaviors of the fire.