SCHOLARS@TAMU

When wildfires erupt the first response in most areas is to attack the blaze with all necessary resources. Wildfire suppression activity particularly on large fires or during periods of high fire dangercan quickly involve multiple jurisdictions, large numbers of responders and a variety of equipment. However, unless the attack is well coordinated, opportunities may be lost even though there was adequate manpower and equipment available. To properly coordinate a multi-jurisdictional response, it is critical that all participants use a standard terminology and have a common understanding of how operations will be conducted. These terms and operational structures are described below.

• Treadwell, Morgan