Wildfire Initial Attack Strategies

Rapidly moving fire in light, dry fuels, often occurring during hot and windy conditions.

A type of fire that starts small and requires initial attack resources.

The initial response to a fire often escalating to multiple agencies and resources.

Larger fires requiring coordination among multiple jurisdictions and operational periods.

An incident command system (ICS) structure used for large fires spanning multiple jurisdictions.

The area where a fire is most active and is advancing rapidly.

A type of fire engine typically used for structural fires.

A situation where various risks and factors align to create a dangerous situation for firefighters.

A type of fire attack where two engines work in line, one behind the other, starting on the hot flank. The first engine moves toward the head of the fire, while the second engine provides containment and prevents flare-ups.

The side of the fire that is downwind of the black (burned area) and moving in the direction of the wind. Usually the fastest-moving part of the fire.

The side of the fire that is upwind of the black, moving against the wind. Usually the slowest-moving part of the fire.

A tactical fire suppression technique where two engines drive through the black to the head of the fire, split the head into two parts, and work their way back towards the flanks. Used when rapid fire spread threatens structures.

An acronym for key safety elements for firefighters: Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones. It emphasizes constant vigilance for firefighter safety during incidents, even in seemingly safe situations.

A direct attack on the flames to contain a fire. This involves using mobile attack engines and progressive hose lays.

A predetermined area on the fireline where firefighters can take refuge if the fire becomes too dangerous.

A preplanned route that firefighters can use to escape a dangerous fire situation.

A set of 10 guidelines designed to improve firefighter safety during wildland fire operations.

A set of 18 circumstances that pose significant risks to firefighters during wildland fires.

A situation where firefighters are unaware of the fire's size and behavior.

A situation where firefighters are operating in unfamiliar terrain with limited visibility.

A situation where firefighters are operating without clearly identified escape routes and safety zones.

A situation where firefighters are unfamiliar with the local weather conditions and their impact on fire behavior.

The location in a vegetation fire where fireground resources should aim to remain, ideally an area already burned out, for safety.

A designated area used to stage additional fire apparatus, often established close to the fire scene, especially when it is unclear if all resources will be needed immediately.

In the context of fire suppression, securing a water source, like a hydrant, water tender, or natural water body, to ensure a continuous supply for firefighting operations.

The individual appointed as the overall leader and decision-maker for the fireground operation, responsible for overall strategic direction and coordination.

The area actively involved in the fire, posing direct risks due to heat, smoke, and unstable terrain.

In a vegetation fire, consider assigning resources to approach the fire from multiple points based on its size, nearby values, and prevailing conditions.

Relating to areas where wildland and urban environments meet, presenting specific fire hazards.

A tactical approach for preparing and responding to fires in wildland-urban interface areas, emphasizing resource coordination and strategic actions.

A training program for firefighting personnel focusing on fire operations in situations where wildland fire threatens structures.

A tactical acronym used in fire operations, including vegetation fires, for quick and effective decision-making. It stands for Size-up, Action Plan, Working Safely, Communication, Safety Checks, Resources, Evaluation, Change of Action, Orders and Values – Safety.

A tactical approach used for containing vegetation fires by establishing control lines around the perimeter of the fire. It's like putting a fence around the fire to prevent its spread.

A key tactic in vegetation fires that focuses on protecting structures from fire damage. This can involve creating firebreaks around buildings, clearing fuel from around structures, and using water to protect buildings from the fire.

A tactical concept where firefighters establish control points on the flanks of a fire, then work towards the head (direction of spread) to gain control of the fire. This is particularly helpful in vegetation fires.

A system used for managing large-scale incidents, including vegetation fires. It follows a hierarchical structure with clear roles and responsibilities, which helps to effectively coordinate and manage resources.