Good preparation is the key to successful burning.
It is essential in realizing maximum net benefits at acceptable cost. Preparation consists of all steps necessary in making the area ready for firing and of having all needed tools and equipment in operating order and ready to go. This preburn work is often done by a crew consisting of a leader, a tractor operator, and a cleanup person. The leader should be trained and experienced in prescribed fire. The job is to locate and establish control lines to best accomplish the objectives of the burning plan.