153:11 Report of Causes and Origins of all Fires. –
Every fire occurring in this state shall be reported in writing to the state fire marshal within 10 days after the occurrence of the same by the appropriate fire chief and shall be in the form prescribed by the board and shall contain a statement of all facts relating to the cause and origin of such fire, so far as is possible, the extent of damage thereof and the insurance upon such property, and such other information as may be required. Fires resulting in losses of less than $5,000 need not be reported unless there is death resulting. The state fire marshal shall cause to be prepared necessary instructional data for the fire chiefs and sufficient forms for their use in the reports required hereby and cause them to be printed and sent to each fire chief. When the cause, origin and circumstances of any fire occurring in any city, town, village district or precinct in this state indicates that such fire was the result of design, or of suspicious origin, the fire chief shall immediately notify the state fire marshal. The state fire marshal shall have the option and authority to submit his findings of facts in the case to the state police, county attorney or local authorities who may assist him in the matter in arrest or prosecution.