Training is especially critical in wildland fire operations. Understanding these factors requires specialized training. The NWCG has developed courses from the most basic to the most advanced levels of wildfire suppression and management. These courses and task books requiring demonstrated performance in a field setting should be the basis of a well-rounded training and qualifications program. The way we fight fire, both on the ground and in the air, can play an important part in reducing wildland fire fatalities.
Guidelines can help the firefighter operate safely in a hazardous environment.
The 10 Standard Fire Orders are direct statements of positive actions a wildland firefighter must take to operate safely. They have evolved over the years as a direct result of wildfire fatalities that occurred when those actions were not taken. The 18 Situations simply alert firefighters to events, but the 10 Standard Fire Orders are rules that must be adhered to. While many other guidelines and memory joggers have evolved over recent years, the acronym LCES does the best job of focusing attention on the critical factors affecting wildland fire safety. Numerous opportunities exist to reduce accidents and fatalities during aircraft operations, both fixed and rotary wing.