Test fire

Go to the downwind side of the burn unit and light a small test fire. The test fire is to determine if fire behavior and fuel conditions will meet the prescription. Do not hesitate to call off the burn if conditions are not satisfactory. This may be the most difficult decision a burn boss has to make. A burn boss who calls off a burn at the last minute after everyone has arrived demonstrates a leader who holds the safety of the crew and public first and foremost.

If the test fire indicates that fire behavior is within prescription, proceed with the burn according to the ignition plan. The crew member lighting the fire should watch the fire behavior and never string more fire than the holding and mop up crew members can handle. Watch for slopovers and spot fires and stop lighting more fire until those are controlled (likely the Alternate plan).