Engine Boss

Duties

• Identifies tactical capability and limitations of engine.
• Identifies capability and limitations of assigned personnel.
• Compares engine attack method alternatives to type of assignment.
• Applies different types of indirect and direct engine tactics.
• Knows the capabilities, characteristics, and application techniques of the various fire suppressant agents used, (e.g., wet water, foam, gel, blankets, etc.) in engine operations.
• Makes specific tactical assignments for engine.
  • Makes assignments based on specific instructions from supervisor.
• Develops alternatives to primary plan based on the possibility of engine/equipment breakdown or failure.
• Makes specific assignments to protect structures (residences, barns, garages, outbuildings).
  • Placement of engine, personnel, hose
  • Evaluates and triages structures.
  • Identifies special hazards (propane tanks, power lines, hazardous materials).
  • Structures preparation.
  • Application of chemical agents (foam, gel).
  • Defensible space.
  • Escape/emergency evacuation (cut and run).
  • Refuge/shelter considerations (fire shelter, vehicle, structure).
  • Entrapment avoidance.
  • Water source availability.
• Checks engine communications systems. Ensure compatibility and operation.
• Locates water sources and check for volume, cleanliness, and permission from owner to use water source in engine resupply.
• Sustains water and chemical agent supply for engine assignment.
• Maintains a supply of water to the fire, particularly on critical areas of the line.
  • Static supply (lakes, hydrants, creeks, folda- tanks, etc.)
  • Mobile supply (water tender shuttle)
  • Obtain engine maintenance schedule and ensure engine is maintained.
• Coordinates and communicates with various fireline and support personnel required for engine assignment.
• Identifies and corrects performance deficiencies regarding equipment maintenance, mopup, driving, retardant operations, water source, and supply system.
  • Completes assignment within time frame established by incident action plan.
• Directs engine operations in accordance with agency/unit standard operating procedures.
• Attends operational briefings.
• Receives briefing from supervisor.
• Develops plan to protect structures.
• Coordinates and communicates with adjacent forces.
• Locates and maps water sources.
• Identifies and corrects performance deficiencies.
• Ensures engine is maintained.
• Confirms demobilization instructions with supervisor and brief subordinates.

Position Knowledge and/or Requirements

• S-230, Crew Boss
• S-290, Intermediate Wildland Fire Behavior
• Qualified as an FFT1