The Fire Marshal is the provincial official responsible for fire prevention, investigation, and public safety related to fire. The Office of the Fire Marshal establishes fire safety standards, investigates fires to determine causes (particularly fatal fires or suspected arson), provides technical support to municipal fire departments, develops public fire safety education programs, and advises on fire code development. While municipal fire chiefs manage local fire departments, the Fire Marshal provides provincial oversight and specialized services beyond local capacity. Fire Marshal offices may investigate when local departments lack expertise or independence (fires involving municipal property, for example), and compile provincial fire statistics informing prevention strategies. In some jurisdictions, the Fire Marshal has authority to order building closures for serious fire safety violations. The Fire Marshal's office also certifies training programs and may set minimum standards for fire services.