Backing fire

A backing fire is a fire front that is spreading against the wind. Backing fires are characterized by short flame lengths, slow rates of spread and lower intensities compared to flank and head fires. They are the safest and easiest to control if winds are steady. Backing fires produce less smoke than head or flank fires. Their slow rate of spread means backing fires take more time to complete. Where a low intensity burn is needed, this can be the answer. There are situations where backing fires may not burn hot enough to meet the objectives of the burn. Backing fires are more frequently used in conjunction with other types of fire such as using a backing fire to secure the downwind portion of the fireline before flank or head fires are lit.