Chapter 17 Tatics

Review Questions: 1. Describe how and why wildland fires have become such a serious problem. a. The threat and number of wildland fires continue to rise because people are drawn to forested areas. b. Lightning is the primary cause of wildland fires in the wildland–urban interface. However, as the population has increased in remote areas, incidents caused by human carelessness and arson are on the rise. 2. List the hazards associated with fighting brush fires. a. - Weather: wind speed, temperature, humidity and expected weather changes b. - Fire Spread: Fire spreads rapidly because of lighter, more easily combustible fuels c. - Falling Trees: Root systems get damaged causing the trees to collapse d. - Water/ Retardant drops: Firefighters must be aware of this from aircraft during operations e. - Not knowing where personnel are: Accountability is important on such a huge area, making sure everyone is accounted for 3. What is the primary concern when battling a wildland fire? a. Firefighter safety is the primary concern. 4. How will evacuation efforts affect extinguishment operations at a wildland fire? a. Evacuation is done while working with public safety agencies. All agencies must be on the same page and work together. Attempting to evacuate people so they do not get injured or killed and people choosing not to leave affects the extinguishment operations at wildland fires. 5. Describe some extinguishing agents, other than water, that have proved effective in controlling wildland fires. a. CAFSs have also proven to be more effective than just water alone. These systems inject air and foam into the discharge side of the pump and allow more efficient and effective use of a hose stream. 6. What conditions might cause you to reassess your decision to protect an exposed structure? a. Escape routes become unusable b. Not enough water supply to sustain the threat c. Spot fires occur quicker than you can control them d. Building construction e. Collapse of the roof f. Where is the structure located g. Fire approach from a certain direction 7. List the 10 firefighting orders. a. Keep informed on weather conditions and forecasts b. Know what the fire is doing at all times c. Base all actions on current and expected fire behavior d. Plan escape routes for everyone and make them known e. Post a lookout where there is possible danger f. Be alert. keep calm, think clearly and act decisively