Forest Fire Prevention Specialist how-to
How to Report a New Fire by Radio
Clear, fast reports help dispatch send the right resources.
Quick answer
Clear, fast reports help dispatch send the right resources. In short: identify; give; describe, then complete the remaining steps below.
Step by step
Identify yourself and your location.
Give the fire’s location using landmarks or coordinates.
Describe size, smoke color and spread.
Describe fuels, weather and threats to structures.
Request resources as needed.
Stay in a safe location and keep observing.
Safety reminders for forest fire prevention specialists
- Carry a fire shelter and PPE when near active fire
- Know escape routes and safety zones
- Watch weather and fire behavior closely
- Drive carefully on remote roads and in smoke
Key terms
Defensible space · Wildland-urban interface (WUI) · Fire danger rating · Red flag warning · Burn ban · Fuel: see the full forest fire prevention specialist glossary.