Red Card Fire Suppression Techniques 2

Question 1

What is the primary purpose of a 'backfire' in wildland fire suppression?

Accepted Answer

To burn fuel between a control line and the advancing fire

Answer

A backfire intentionally burns out fuel between a control line and the main fire, eliminating the fuel the fire needs to advance.

Question 2

When constructing a hand line, what is the standard minimum width for the mineral soil scratch line?

Accepted Answer

18 inches

Answer

A hand line scratch to mineral soil should be at least 18 inches wide to effectively stop fire spread in most conditions.

Question 3

Which suppression method is most appropriate for a low-intensity ground fire with abundant fine fuels?

Accepted Answer

Direct attack with hand tools and water

Answer

Low-intensity ground fires with fine fuels are best addressed with direct attack using hand tools and water to smother and cool the burning material.

Question 4

What does 'mop-up to the black' mean during fire suppression operations?

Accepted Answer

Extinguishing all heat sources along the control line perimeter

Answer

Mopping up to the black means thoroughly extinguishing all smoldering material and heat within the already-burned area near the control line.

Question 5

In indirect attack strategy, where is the control line typically constructed?

Accepted Answer

Away from the fire's edge using natural barriers or roads

Answer

Indirect attack builds control lines away from the fire's edge, using natural barriers, roads, or previously cleared areas to contain the fire.

Red Card - Wildland Firefighter Red Card Certification Practice Test