Wildland Firefighting Practice Exam

For hot burning fires, the discharge rate should not be less than how many gallons per minute (gpm)?

1. 20 gpm

2. 30 gpm

3. 40 gpm

4. 50 gpm

The correct answer is: 30 gpm

In wildland firefighting, determining the appropriate discharge rate is crucial for effectively suppressing hot burning fires. A discharge rate of 30 gallons per minute (gpm) is considered the minimum standard for combating these intense fires. This amount is justified because hot burning fires often involve high temperatures and rapid spread, requiring a substantial volume of water to achieve effective cooling and extinguishing. Using a discharge rate that is at least 30 gpm ensures that there is enough water to penetrate and cool the combustible materials effectively, helping to prevent rekindles and allowing firefighters to maintain control over the fire. A lower discharge rate may not provide sufficient water volume or pressure to compete with the energy output from a hot fire, potentially leading to ineffective suppression efforts and unsafe conditions for the firefighting crew. Thus, adhering to the minimum of 30 gpm is essential for maintaining safety and effectiveness in wildland fire suppression operations.