Direct and Indirect attack strategies on wildfires

The BC Wildfire Service selects attack methods based on the size and intensity of a wildfire. All attack methods prioritize the protection of values and the safety of firefighters.

Direct attack is conducted on low-intensity wildfires that pose minimal risk to safety of firefighters. Control lines are established adjacent to the fire, and a water delivery system is established to extinguish the flames.

When wildfires are moderate-to high-intensity, it's unsafe for crews to work close by, and indirect attack methods are used. Crews work to establish control lines further from the fire, hundreds of thousands of meters away from fire's edge, aiming to box-in the fire.

Every wildfire is unique. The BC Wildfire Service selects response types and attack methods based on fire behaviour, potential risks and environmental factors. Some fires should be suppressed as soon as possible, but other fires should be allowed to burn.