Safety plan components

Written Safety Plan

Every prescribed burn plan should have a safety plan specific to the area being burned. The safety plan should be clear and concise. It should include pertinent personal and public safety issues. The following list gives examples of specific categories and items that should be addressed:

• Emergency medical plan – phone number of EMS if not 911; address and phone number of nearest hospital; who will oversee an accident scene
• Required Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) – ensure that all crew members are in PPE; familiar with tools
• Communications – radio channels to use; distance limitation of radios; check cell phone service
• Specific burn unit hazards – identify dangerous animals, cisterns/mine pits, hazardous terrain, etc.
• Public safety issues – identify nearby homes, livestock, major roads, other smoke sensitive sites
• Fireline safety – crew accountability; distance to maintain from heavy equipment; identify escape routes and safety zones
• Weather related hazards – cold, heat or humidity factors; predicted thunderstorms