Wildfire response types and attack methods

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

Control lines are established adjacent to the fire. Direct attack is conducted on low-intensity wildfires that pose minimal risk to safety of firefighters. 

Parallel attack

For low-to moderate-intensity wildfires, control lines are built near the fire and fuel between the control line and the fire is burned off. Natural and infrastructure features may be used as control lines

Indirect attack

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

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between attack methods and "initial attack"?

If a wildfire has the potential to threaten life, property or other values, the BC Wildfire Service will attempt to control it as quickly as possible. "Initial attack" refers to the early stages of wildfire management when incidents are attacked directly, with quick-response initial attack crews. 

What is sustained action?

Due to fire weather and other factors, wildfires may spread beyond initial attack capability (smaller quick-response crews). In cases where wildfires exceed initial attack resources, the BC Wildfire Service begins using "sustained action" tactics involving unit crews, aircraft, and heavy equipment, all led by an incident management team. 

Although sustained action wildfires make up roughly 6% of distinct incidents in B.C., their size and complexity require the largest amount of resources and subsequent recovery operations.