Nothing is more frustrating for a firefighter than trying to reach a fire when the information consists only of a block and lot number in an unfamiliar development. Fuels Heavy underbrush, dead grass or long pine needles make for flashy fuels. The more flashy the fuel, the faster a fire will move on the ground. Be aware of what's happening overhead as well. Combustible material suspended in the crowns of high shrubs and trees makes for aerial fuel.
Aerial fuels create a fast moving fire, one that winds can carry miles ahead of the main fire.
To forest fire agencies, fuel means flammable vegetation, grass, brush, land clearing debris and other materials. Exposure to forest and brush fuels is a primary hazard. Under severe weather conditions these fuels burn with intense heat and spread rapidly. Clearing fuels around buildings will reduce structural exposure to flames and radiant heat. It will also give fire fighters a reasonable chance of saving structures.