Fire victims are often found in what type of physical stance?

Fire victims are often found in a crouching "pugilistic" stance due to the body's natural response to extreme heat and the instinctual reaction to protect vital areas. This position occurs when the heat causes the muscles to contract and the body reacts defensively, as if to shield oneself from the flames or heat. The arms and legs bend, with the arms often raised in front of the face, which may indicate an attempt to protect the head and airways from smoke or heat.

This characteristic stance serves as a crucial indicator during fire investigations, as it can provide information to investigators about the circumstances surrounding the fire, including the victim's possible actions prior to death and the intensity of the fire they encountered. Understanding this typical posture can aid in the reconstruction of events and understanding how the fire developed and spread.