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Escape Routes 2

 

Continued from: Escape Routes Part 1 (Take 5@2)

 

Escape routes are the paths available to firefighters from their current location when exposed to danger to an area free from danger. There should always be more than one escape route available to firefighters.

Escape routes are probably the most elusive component of Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones (LCES). Their effectiveness changes continuously. As firefighters work along the fire perimeter, fatigue and spatial separation can increase the time required to reach the safety zone.

The most common escape routes (or part of an escape route) include the fireline. On an indirect or parallel fireline, situations become more complex. Unless safety zones have been identified ahead, as well as behind, a firefighters’ retreat may not be possible.

  • Discuss how you would judge the effectiveness of an escape route. Have you ever timed yourself using an escape route?
  • Describe an instance when you were uncomfortably distant from your escape routes.
  • Describe a method you have used to communicate the location of an escape route to your crews.

 

Also see: Escape Routes Part 3

 

Category
Operational Engagement
References
"LCES and Other Thoughts" by Paul Gleason
10 Standard Firefighting Orders, PMS 110
18 Watch Out Situations, PMS 118
10 and 18 Poster, PMS 110-18


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2024 Wildland Fire Emergency Medical Service Awards

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Questions?  Please contact:
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The NWCG Emergency Medical Committee (EMC) is proud to announce the recipients of the 2024 Wildland Fire Emergency Medical Service Awards. Each year, EMC recognizes individuals and groups who have demonstrated exceptional actions or accomplishments that go above and beyond their normal mission or job duties.

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Date: May 21, 2025
Questions?  Please contact:
https://www.nwcg.gov/contact-us

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IMTA is a dedicated group of incident management professionals committed to enhancing the profession by promoting standards and fostering collaboration across federal, state, local, Tribal, and private sector partners throughout all phases of incident management.

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Questions?  Please contact:
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PMS 431 defines the organizational structure, staffing, and qualifications for Type 1 and Type 2 Wildland Fire Modules, outlining their roles in wildland fire suppression, prescribed fire, and resource management. The NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431, should be used in conjunction with the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Module Operations, PMS 430.

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NWCG Guide for Wildland Fire Modules, PMS 431

NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Module Operations, PMS 430

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Date: May 13, 2025
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NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Resource Typing, PMS 200