NWCG Glossary of Wildland Fire, PMS 205

A chart of wind speed in relation to height, most commonly determined by a pilot balloon observation.

A variation in wind speed and/or direction in a layer of the atmosphere or between layers. The variation may be in the horizontal or vertical dimensions and may result in significant turbulence depending upon the magnitude of the wind speed/direction differences. A strong wind shear may act like an inversion and inhibit plume rise. It may also fracture the smoke plume, not allowing smoke to rise much above terrain levels. A strong horizontal anticyclonic shear results in downward motion and may bring smoke aloft to the surface.

For aviation purposes, a change in the average wind direction of 45 degrees or more which takes place in less than 15 minutes if the wind speed during this period is 6 knots (3 m/s) or greater.

For ground observation purposes, a change of at least 45 degrees in the direction of a significant wind, which occurs in a relatively short time frame.

Wind, in miles per hour, measured at 20 feet above open, level ground or as adjusted to meet this standard to compensate for height of ground cover, uneven ground, and nearby obstructions.

Wind, in miles per hour, measured at 20 feet above ground, or above the average height of vegetation, and averaged over at least a 10-minute period.

Wind directions used to calculate fire behavior.

A char pattern that is created by the passage of wind around the trunk of a tree or pole-like object that creates vortices on the lee side and an area of stability.  The area of stability allows the heat and char pattern to rise higher on the lee side of the object.  Generally, the stronger the wind, the higher the wind vortex flame wrap will be.  White this is not a fire pattern indicator, it is a general indication of the direction of the wind at the time the pattern was created.

A wildland fire that is controlled by a strong consistent wind.

Tree that has been uprooted or broken off by wind.

Burning slash that has been piled into long continuous rows. Also includes wildfire in vegetation planted to protect improvements or agriculture.

Generally, wind speeds and wind directions at various levels in the atmosphere above the domain of surface weather observations.

A handheld device which indicates wind speed, usually in miles per hour.

In NFDRS, a calculated value representing the approximate moisture content of the live woody vegetation in the rating area expressed as a percentage of the oven dry weight of the sample.

A code reflecting the moisture content of the foliage and small twigs [less than 1/4 inch (0.6 cm)] of living woody plants.

The Work Capacity Test (WCT) is a test to ensure a person is physically capable of meeting the minimum fitness requirement associated with assigned wildfire or prescribed fire duties as described in the NWCG Standards for Wildland Fire Position Qualifications, PMS 310-1.  Below are the three defined duty levels with examples of associated essential functions:  

Arduous

Arduous duty field work requires above-average endurance and superior conditioning.  Duties may include an occasional demand for extraordinarily strenuous activity in emergency situations under adverse environmental conditions over extended periods. The pace of work typically is set by the emergency condition.  Essential functions include, but are not limited to: running, walking or hiking, climbing, jumping, twisting, bending, lifting more than 50 pounds, and carrying 45 pounds or more for extended periods over difficult terrain. 

Moderate

Moderate duty field work requires the average endurance and conditioning of an individual who possesses complete control of all their physical faculties. Occasional demands may be required for moderately strenuous activities in emergencies over long periods. The pace of work is usually set by the current environmental conditions.  Essential functions include, but are not limited to: considerable walking over irregular ground, standing for long periods, lifting 25 to 50 pounds, climbing, bending, stooping, squatting, twisting, and reaching.

Light

Light duty mainly involves office-type work with occasional field activity characterized by light physical exertion requiring basic good health.  Individuals almost always can govern the extent and pace of their physical activity.  Essential functions include, but are not limited to: climbing stairs, standing, operating a vehicle, and long hours of work, as well as some bending, stooping, or light lifting.

The WCT consists of three separate levels of tests which correspond with the three duty types.  The tests are defined as follows:

Pack Test - This is a job-related test to determine an individual’s ability to perform the minimum standards of arduous duty.  It consists of completing a 3-mile walk over level terrain in 45 minutes or less while carrying a 45-pound pack.  
Field Test – This is a job-related test to determine an individual’s ability to perform the minimum standards of moderate duty. It consists of completing a 2-mile walk over level terrain in 30 minutes or less while carrying a 25-pound pack.
Walk Test – This is a job-related test to determine an individual’s ability to perform the minimum standards of light duty.  The test consists of completing a 1-mile walk over level terrain in 16 minutes or less with no load.

For more information about the Work Capacity Test consult the Work Capacity Test Administrator’s Guide, PMS 307.

The WCT consists of three separate levels of tests which correspond with the three duty types. The tests are defined as Pack Test, Field Test, Walk Test.

A daily, hourly, or mileage rate shall apply when equipment is under hire as ordered by the government and on shift, including relocation of equipment under its own power.

An expression of the amount of rest that is required for each hour an individual is in work status. Current NWCG guidelines require one hour of rest for every two hours in work status.

Fire hose of conventional construction, woven on looms from fibers of cotton or synthetic fibers. Most fire department hose is double jacketed (i.e., it has an outer jacket protecting the inner one against wear and abrasion).

A hose connection with two outlets permitting two connections of the same coupling diameter to be taken from a single supply line.

A permanent 24-hour observing station.

A portion of the general fire weather forecast issued on a regular basis during the normal fire season specifically to fit the requirements of fire management needs; i.e., time, areas, and weather elements. These zones or areas are a combination of administrative and climatological areas, usually nearly the size of an individual forest or district.