Methods of Attack

Tactics and Strategies

Primary Methods of Attack

Direct

The direct attack approach attacks the fire itself (Coleman, et al. 585). It is generally best suited for small and/or slowly spreading fires that are burning with few fuels in the area or fuels that contain a high moisture content (National Wildfire Coordinating Group 16). The point of initial attack is referred to as the anchor point. From the anchor point, the flanks of the fire are then attacked the head or leading edge of the fire is reached. The most aggressive flank is attacked first unit the fire is eventually surrounded and extinguished.



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Indirect

The indirect approach is used for larger fires that are spreading rapidly. Crews move ahead of the fire and remove any fuels in the fires path in order to slow or stop the fire's progression (Coleman, et al. 586). One means of removing the fuel in front of the head of the fire is the use of backfiring. Backfiring is an intentional burn that eliminates the fuel in front of a fire in order to widen control lines, change the direction of a fire, or slow the fire's progress (Perry 203). One method of backfiring is shown below.



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Parallel

Parallel attacks are similar to the previous attack methods. They are almost a combination between the two actually. Both flanks of the fire are attacked simultaneously only farther from the fire line than in the direct attack, thereby containing the fire between two parallel control lines. By using a process referred to as burnout shown below, the unburned fuels between the two parallel control lines and the fire are then burned (Perry 201).



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Equipment

Air Support

Rotary and fixed wing aircraft play a vital role in wildland fire operations. They can assist in the deployment of handcrews and smoke jumpers, provide reconnaissance of the affected area, as well as provide fire suppression through water and retardant drops.



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Engines/ Brush Trucks/ Tenders

These apparatus are used primarily to transport water and firefighters to the fire scene. An apparatus will be deployed to the fire scene depending on its capabilities and the fire conditions. For example, a brush truck may be deployed to an area that may be impassible by and engine or tender.



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Bulldozers/Heavy Equipment

Bulldozers and heavy equipment can be utilized in virtually every attack method if they are available and circumstances permit them to be deployed. They are used to create control lines, clear brush and large debris, and enhance natural barriers among other varied uses. These machines are especially good on the fireline since they can usually withstand a greater amount of heat than a handcrew worker provided the proper safety gear for the driver it utilized.



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Pumps

Pumps are used to transport the water to the fire scene from ground based water supplies. This can be from natural water sources, fire apparatus, or Fold-a-tanks. The pumps pictured below are used in conjunction with a brush truck.



Photo Courtesy of WildlandFire.com

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