Lookouts (LCES)

5. Post lookouts when there is possible danger.

Lookouts provide time-sensitive information to firefighters. This Standard Firefighting Order demonstrates firefighters installing a pump and hose lay with a designated lookout to keep watch for and communicate possible hazards.

Read about all 10 Standard Firefighting Orders.

Lookouts are often best situated to notice the cumulative changes of fire behavior.

Standard Firefighting Order #5 is: Post lookouts when there is possible danger.

• Discuss why lookouts should be posted at all times.

What are you looking for when you are selecting a lookout location?

• Choose a good vantage point, preferably with a good overview of the entire area where firefighters are located, including escape routes and safety zones.
• Never rely exclusively on aircraft as your lookout.

What are the desired qualities, capabilities, knowledge, and responsibilities of a lookout?

• Experienced firefighter.
• Solid knowledge of fire behavior and the ability to recognize and monitor other environmental hazards.
• Knowledge of crew locations, escape and safety locations, and trigger points.
• Good communicator.
• Knowledge of weather patterns, and signs of incoming weather changes.
• Advises the crew of fire behavior changes, and tracks weather trends and relays the information.
• Monitors and accounts for all individuals within the assigned area at all times, and notifies others if breaks are needed.

What is the necessary equipment for a lookout?

• Personal protective equipment (PPE), radio with extra batteries, compass, binoculars, belt weather kit, an Incident Action Plan (IAP), map, food, water, and watch.