WILDLAND FIRES
The wilderness adventurer or casual hiker in a forest or timbered park may find himself face to face with a wildland fire. This section will discuss high-risk situations, survival techniques, and medical considerations. Review the sections on burns (see page 108), lightning injuries (see page 395), heat illness (see page 322), and inhalation injuries (see page 114) as well.
HIGH-RISK SITUATIONS
1. There are drought conditions. Low humidity, higher air temperatures, and gusty winds create dry fuel for a fire.
2. You are in an area rich with abundant fuel, such as dead grass, pine needles, shrubs, fallen trees, and the like.
3. You travel through gullies, in canyons, along steep slopes, or in other regions where wind and fuel are ideal for rapid advance of an established fire.
4. Fires have occurred recently in the vicinity.
5. You cannot see the main fire and are not in contact with anyone who can.
STANDARD FIRE ENCOUNTER PRINCIPLES
1. Have advance knowledge of weather conditions and forecasts before undertaking an expedition. Do not travel in hazardous regions in times of high fire risk. Local ranger stations are the best source of information. Never plan an extended journey without leaving an itinerary with the proper authorities. In the event of a fire, try to maintain communication with firefighters or other rescuers.
2. At every campsite, take a few moments to prepare a plan for an evacuation, with at least two escape routes. Be certain that everyone understands the routes.
3. If a fire is in the area, pay attention to it, so that you will know what the fire is doing. Obtain current information on fire status. If there is any chance that it can involve your party, get out early.
4. If you see smoke or fire at a distance, post a lookout to watch for any changes that might indicate increased danger.
5. In all situations, stay calm and act with authority. Give orders concisely and be sure that they are understood. Base all of your actions on the current and expected behavior of the fire.
6. Do not attempt to fight the fire unless you have provided for safety first. Your first responsibility is to evacuate all potential victims and provide necessary first aid. In general, it is best to leave fire fighting to professionals. If you become a fire fighter, provide for safety first. Determine safety zones and escape routes.
7. Do not sleep near a wildland fire. If the wind and fire direction change, you may be overcome with smoke and unable to escape.
WHAT TO DO WHEN CAUGHT IN A WILDLAND FIRE
1. Try not to panic. This is difficult, but if anything will save your life, it will be a clear head.
2. Don’t move downhill toward a fire, because fires have a tendency to run uphill.
3. Unless the path of escape is clear, don’t start running. Conserve your strength, and seek the flank of the fire. Continually observe changes in speed and direction of the fire and smoke to choose travel away from fire hazards. Be alert, keep calm, and avoid injury from rolling or falling debris.
