220-289 Fire Suppression

207-161 Fire and Water Management

This subject deals with the management of fire control incidents and the use of fire as a management tool.

On completion of this subject, students should:

• be able to assist in fire weather forecasting;

• understand the principles of fire behaviour and the basis of fire danger ratings;

• understand the principles of fire control, planning and conduction of fuel hazard reduction and fire suppression strategies;

• be aware of the role of personnel and organisations in fire suppression;

• understand fire law and logistics; and

• appreciate the role and impact of fire on forest ecosystems.

The subject covers the areas of:

• fire weather forecasting and climatic zones, weather systems, temperature, moisture and wind effects;

• fire behaviour, fuel, weather, topography effects and fire danger rating systems;

• fire control, hazard reduction, suppression strategies;

• fire law, logistics and operational considerations; and

• fire ecology.

A 2-hour written examination worth 50%, and up to three practical activities/assignments totalling 50% of the final marks.