What is a common firefighting tactic used by PBCFR?

The use of direct or indirect attack methods is a common firefighting tactic for several reasons. Direct attack involves applying water or other extinguishing agents directly onto the fire, thereby aiming to cool the flames and stop fire spread immediately. This approach is advantageous when the fire is small, manageable, and accessible. Conversely, indirect attack methods involve creating a barrier by removing fuel from the fire’s advance, often done by applying water or agents to preemptively attack areas outside the main fire or to cool down hot spots.

Both methods are integral to effectively managing a fire situation, depending on the circumstances and type of fire being fought. By utilizing these strategies, firefighters are able to adapt to the conditions at hand and improve their chances of successfully extinguishing the fire while also ensuring their safety and the safety of those in the vicinity.

In comparison, focusing solely on water hoses or setting controlled burns does not encompass the breadth of tactics available to firefighters. A stealthy approach, while perhaps useful in certain scenarios, is not a recognized standard tactic within firefighting training and practice. Thus, the combination of direct and indirect attack methods forms the foundation of an effective firefighting strategy employed by agencies like PBCFR.