Wildfire Temporary Refuge Area - description and practice
Temporary refuge areas (TRA) assist firefighters from radiant heat when the flame front has caught up to emergency workers. When lookouts, anchors, communications and escape routes have failed and safety zone is too far away a TRA might still save the team. A temporary refuge area is used as a last-resort survival option when sudden changes in fire behavior prevent firefighters from reaching a planned escape route or safety zone. Unlike an ideal safety zone—which is an area clear of flammable materials where you can survive the passing fire without a fire shelter—a temporary refuge provides emergency shelter to shield you from radiant heat. Here are the primary options and characteristics for a temporary refuge: Structures: If you must use a building, prepare it rapidly by clearing away outside combustibles, closing all windows and heavy drapes, and bringing charged hoses and fire extinguishers inside. Once inside, stay on the main floor and keep away from windows, basements, and ...