S-130 Map and Compass 2

Question 1

On a topographic map, what does a series of concentric closed contour lines indicate?

Accepted Answer

A hilltop or peak

Answer

Concentric closed contour lines represent a hilltop or peak, with the innermost circle being the highest point.

Question 2

Which map feature is used by wildland firefighters to identify potential escape routes and safety zones based on terrain?

Accepted Answer

Contour lines

Answer

Contour lines reveal terrain shape, allowing firefighters to identify ridges, saddles, and drainages critical for escape route planning.

Question 3

When orienting a map with a compass, what should align with the compass needle?

Accepted Answer

The map's north edge (toward magnetic north)

Answer

Orienting a map means aligning the map's north edge with the compass needle pointing to magnetic north (after accounting for declination).

Question 4

What is the term for the angle difference between true north and the direction a compass needle points?

Accepted Answer

Magnetic declination

Answer

Magnetic declination is the angular difference between true (geographic) north and magnetic north shown by a compass.

Question 5

A firefighter reads a compass bearing of 315°. In what general direction is this?

Accepted Answer

Northwest

Answer

315° on a compass corresponds to northwest (NW), located three-quarters of the way around from north in the counterclockwise direction.

(S-130) Wildland Firefighting Training Certification Practice Test