Wildland Firefighting Practice Exam

When constructing a fire line, what is the recommended width relative to the height of the fuel?

1. Equal to the height of the fuel

2. One and one-half times the height of the fuel

3. Twice the height of the fuel

4. Half the height of the fuel

The correct answer is: One and one-half times the height of the fuel

When constructing a fire line, the recommended width is one and one-half times the height of the fuel. This guideline ensures that the fire line is adequately sized to effectively halt the spread of fire. The rationale behind this recommendation is that as the height and density of the fuel increase, so does the potential for fire intensity and behavior. A fire line that is wider than the height of the fuel enhances the likelihood of successfully containing the fire by providing a sufficient buffer zone to reduce fire spread through direct conduction, convection, and radiant heat. Choosing a width smaller than this proportion may not offer enough protection or could risk the line becoming ineffective in the event of extreme fire behavior, where flames might leap over thinner lines. Therefore, adhering to the guideline of one and one-half times the height of the fuel contributes to enhanced safety and effectiveness in firefighting efforts, making it the appropriate practice for constructing fire lines.