Ignition Phase – The Contractor Shall: Require the burn boss to remain on-site at all times from the time that the test fire is lit until mop-up is complete. Monitor and document on-site weather readings on an hourly basis, until ignition is completed. All such weather data is to be submitted to the SCPRT PM once the burn is completed. Ensure that during live fire operations, every team member has direct radio communication with the burn boss or has clear vocal communication with someone who does. Secure a solid baseline before initiating full ignition, using appropriate ignition techniques (such as spot grids, strip heads, and flanking fires) as determined by the burn boss based on current and expected weather, current and expected fire behavior, and objectives Regularly monitor smoke conditions on nearby roadways during and for two hours after ignition is completed. When conditions warrant, erect warning signage and notify the SC Highway Patrol of the hazard. NOT use “ringing” as an ignition pattern. This is an unacceptable practice since ringing is not only likely to entrap wildlife species, but without good communication, ringing may likewise entrap fire personnel. NOT darken or char SCPRT buildings, structures, trail signs, fences, or other improvements. Back burn away from the protective lines raked around all infrastructure and painted RCW trees, minimizing heat, char potential, and flame length near the structures and these federally protected trees. The additional use of water during this process is highly desirable. Carefully consider whether to continue ignition, to halt ignition at a suitable break, or to suppress the existing fire if weather conditions or fire behavior exceed prescription parameters, if existing fire behavior will not achieve specified burn objectives, or when two spot fires occur across the containment lines and require 10 or more minutes each to suppress.
