Firefighter 1C Wildland Practice Exam

Name disadvantages in using the indirect attack method of wildland fire fighting:

1. Easier work/no heat, smoke reduces length of fire edge

2. Burning operation can escape control, acreage burned increases

3. Permits using natural barriers

4. Can allow more time to construct line

The correct answer is: Burning operation can escape control, acreage burned increases

The indirect attack method in wildland firefighting has distinct challenges, and one prominent disadvantage is that the burning operation can escape control, leading to an increase in the acreage burned. This approach often involves creating control lines at some distance from the fire's edge, which can result in a situation where the fire can spread unpredictably if the burning operation goes awry. When firefighters ignite fuel in the path of the fire to eliminate available combustible material, they rely on factors such as weather conditions and topography. If these factors change or if the fire behaves unexpectedly, it may lead to larger areas being affected than originally anticipated. Consequently, the fire may escape the intended control measures, leading to a more extensive wildfire than if a direct attack had been employed. In contrast, the other aspects mentioned in the choices illustrate potential benefits or neutral outcomes rather than disadvantages. For instance, the easier work mentioned might reflect the reduced exposure to direct heat and smoke, while natural barriers can be advantageous for controlling fires, allowing for more efficient resource allocation. Ultimately, while each aspect has its own significance, the risk of losing control over a burning operation stands out as a critical disadvantage of the indirect attack method.