Blower line

[OneLick]

There was a question in one of the other threads on what a "blower line" is. It was handled rather well by the guys from NJ. Here is what some of us do here in PA. Sawyer and swamper first, 2 leaf blowers, articulating head hedge trimmer (for the mountain laurel, grasses, etc) then scrapers, then either someone from DCNR or a highly qualified crew boss, squad boss, (s-290,s-131,s-234,etc.) comes along and brings the black with us. Works like a charm. Any other thoughts?
Onelick

[NJFFSA16]

In a perfect world and given the appropriate manpower, that strategy would be ideal. I'd give my left n*t to have that option.

However, during daytime initial attack, in the absence of the local fire company...I would expect a wildland crew of between 3 and 6 for the first 15-30 minutes. At best, I could deploy one leafblower and handtool to each flank...post a lookout, have someone scout the fire and check the terrain for natural firebreaks...and hope that more manpower shows up soon. Firing in the line would be dependent on expected fire behavior, terrain and local wx conditions. Of course, given the choice, I would prefer black all the way to containment lines.

Daytime manpower is at a premium. Six tools and 2 leafblowers per flank would be great and probably works like a charm, as you say but I'm not gonna hold my breath waiting for that to happen!! I usually can't get REAL meaningful manpower until after 1700 hrs.

HEY CBP....help me out here! What's your daytime manpower expectancy in Division B?

Anything one man can imagine, other men can make real. - Jules Verne

Lookouts-Communications-Escape Routes- Safety Zones

[captstanm1]

That response about the blower line was to my brain cramp of a few weeks ago. I was thinking one thing and reading something else.

But..I have recovered nicely and now am back on track.

[NJFFSA16]

Ah yes...brain cramps! When I have them, my fire crew tells me they're "senior moments." (Lovingly, of course!)

Blower lines: the various hoses coming off engine equipment used by
top fuel dragsters?

[cbplante3]

A16, you should remember by now that in the flatlands of southern NJ, suppression is primarily mechanized. If 6-10 men turn out, that usually means 3-4 engines and a tractor/plow. If that ain't enough...well, you can expect a lot of help in a hurry!
Often from Division A.
Look forward to seeing you.

[NJFFSA16]

cbp3 stated

you can expect a lot of help in a hurry! Often from Division A.

I'm here for ya C.B. And I'll leave the leafblower home! I just gotta hop on I-287 south....and look for the column!

A-16