Safety Protocols & Risk Management Flashcards

What is the most commonly recommended drip torch fuel mixture?

Answer: 3 parts diesel to 1 part gasoline

A mix of about 3:1 diesel to gasoline provides reliable ignition while reducing the volatility of pure gasoline.

Which tool is used to rate a prescribed burn's complexity as low, moderate, or high to determine burn boss qualifications?

Answer: The Prescribed Fire Complexity Rating System Guide (PMS 424)

The Prescribed Fire Complexity Rating System Guide evaluates risk, potential consequences, and technical difficulty to rate complexity.

When should the burn boss declare a prescribed fire a wildfire?

Answer: When it exceeds prescription and contingency actions cannot return it to prescription in the time specified

A prescribed fire becomes a wildfire when it cannot be brought back within prescription by on-site contingency actions in the time defined by the plan.

What is the main safety concern with standing dead trees (snags) inside or near a burn unit?

Answer: They can burn through and fall unexpectedly onto personnel

Burning snags can weaken and fall without warning, making them a leading cause of injuries and fatalities on fires.

Heat stress risk is highest for prescribed fire crews under which combination of conditions?

Answer: High temperature, high humidity, heavy PPE, and strenuous work

High heat and humidity limit sweat evaporation, and heavy PPE plus hard work add metabolic heat, sharply raising heat illness risk.

What is the key purpose of a pre-burn briefing for all personnel?

Answer: To ensure everyone understands objectives, hazards, assignments, communications, and contingency plans

The briefing ensures every person knows the plan, their role, hazards, escape routes, safety zones, and communications.

Which situation is listed among the 18 Watch Out Situations?

Answer: Unburned fuel between you and the fire

Having unburned fuel between you and the fire is a classic Watch Out Situation because it can burn toward you.