National Wildfire Coordinating Group

Firefighter Type 1 (squad boss), FFT1

Position Category: 
Incident Positions
Position Code: 
FFT1
Functional Area: 
Operations
AD Class: 
AD-D

Duties

  • Briefs subordinates on tactical assignment, fuels, topography, weather, safety zones and escape routes throughout the operational period.
  • Responsible for the safety and welfare of subordinates during assignments, especially when separated from the balance of the crew.
  • Develops instantaneous tactics as required by the fuel type, weather, terrain conditions, in conjunction with defined strategy received from supervisor.
  • Properly uses portable or mobile multi-channel radio.
    • Uses correct nomenclature.
    • Correctly prepares radio for operation.
    • Successfully completes radio check.
    • Selects proper channel.
    • Makes appropriate adjustments (squelch/volume).
    • Changes location to improve reception/transmission (as needed).
    • Protects radio from damage at all times.
    • Uses proper radio procedures and techniques.
    • Exercises proper radio discipline.
    • Describes agency procedures for emergency notification (emergency traffic).
    • Describes limitations of radio communications.
  • Properly uses maps and compass.
    • Accurately determines local declination.
    • Uses compass to point to true north.
    • Accurately orients map using compass, landmarks, improved properties, streets, access roads, and topographic features.
    • Accurately identifies current location by determining back azimuths to two identifiable landmarks or topographic features.
    • Verifies location by comparing topographic features or street references with map.
    • Describes location in terms of coordinates or other acceptable description.
    • Accurately reads map symbols.
    • Accurately computes distance and bearing.
    • Navigates from point to point using map, compass, and pacing.
    • Accurately navigates to an assigned destination.
    • Utilizes available property improvement maps to identify areas of concern.
  • Takes appropriate action to safely initiate action during initial attack or when completing assigned wildland fire or prescribed fire tasks.
    • Evaluates Initial Attack Plan.
    • Directs tactical operations which provide safety to the firefighter.
    • Uses appropriate fire suppression strategy.
    • Develops appropriate tactics based on selected strategy, values to be protected and expected fire behavior.
    • Maintains status reporting (ICS 201, Incident Briefing).
    • Properly locates fireline.
    • Uses appropriate fireline construction methods.
    • Requests additional resources as needed.
    • Directs the rearrangement and reduction of fuel.
    • Directs the securing of hazards.
    • Directs the preparation of building/structure.
    • Direct the application of pre-treatment agents (foam, gel, blanket).
  • Serves as lookout.
    • Establishes/maintains communications with assigned resources.
    • Chooses position with good view of all aspects of hazard, values to be protected, and personnel.
    • Carries proper equipment (watch, map,radio/batteries).
    • Provide updates on any changes that may compromise the safety of fireline personnel.
    • Provides appropriate warnings and direction for hazardous conditions and/or indications of extreme fire behavior.
  • Demonstrates understanding of how to apply the Risk Management Process found in PMS 461, Incident Response Pocket Guide and PMS 410-1, Fireline Handbook.
    • Step 1 Situational awareness
    • Step 2 Hazard assessment
    • Step 3 Hazard control
    • Step 4 Decision point
    • Step 5 Evaluate
  • Checks in at incident.
  • Receives briefing from supervisor.
  • Properly sizes up fire.
  • Demonstrates ability to develop strategy and apply appropriate tactics.
  • Demonstrates ability to reduce threat of fire exposure to improved properties.
  • Demonstrates how to apply LCES.
  • Briefs subordinates or relief.
  • Keeps crewmembers informed on a regular basis about pertinent information.
  • Inspects squad personnel for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
  • Inspects assigned equipment and supplies.
  • Provides leadership and supervision for squad members.
  • Assists with preparation of reports and records.
  • Confirms demobilization instructions with supervisor and brief subordinates.

Position Needs

  • S-131, Advanced Firefighting Training
  • Qualified Firefighter Type 2
Page Last Modified / Reviewed: 
2018-07-27