Summer is here and fire season is in full swing. Many AOL members provide valuable resources to fight wildfires, as part of the complete and coordinated wildland firefighting system. 

 

Ensuring that your crew has “LCES” established can help ensure their safety, during forest firefighting. What is LCES?

 

LCES —Lookouts, Communications, Escape Routes, and Safety Zones

 

Lookouts: Appoint trained individuals to monitor fire behavior and relay critical information. Their vigilance can prevent surprises and enable timely responses.

 

Communications: Maintain reliable communication channels among all team members. Clear, consistent updates are vital for coordinating efforts and issuing warnings.

 

Escape Routes: Identify and mark multiple escape routes in advance. Ensure they are accessible and unobstructed, allowing for quick evacuation if conditions deteriorate.

 

Safety Zones: Establish and familiarize everyone with designated safety zones—areas free from flammable vegetation and away from the fire’s path. These zones provide refuge during intense fire.