Req 7a2 — Indirect Attack
7a2.
Indirect attack
An indirect attack involves constructing control lines well ahead of a fast-moving fire—utilizing natural barriers (rivers, ridge tops, roads)—and setting intentional burnout operations (backfiring) to consume intervening fuel before the main fire front arrives.
Tactical Execution & Conditions
- Methods: Bulldozers or hand crews construct wide control lines hundreds of yards ahead of the fire. Drip torches are used to ignite the fuel between the control line and the advancing fire edge.
- Conditions: Used when flame lengths exceed 4 to 8+ feet, fire behavior is extreme, or steep topography makes working directly at the fire edge too dangerous.
- Advantages: Keeps firefighters out of high radiant heat and smoke, using natural barriers to secure long control lines.
Requirement 7a2 Resources
🎬 Video: Direct and Indirect Attack Strategies on Wildfires — National Interagency Fire Center — https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HDmGToDhgV4
Next Steps
Learn about Minimum Impact Suppression Tactics (MIST) designed to protect wilderness areas in Requirement 7a3.