A fire watch can monitor forests for signs of fire.
A lookout usually monitors a fire-prone area of land from a tall watchtower to prevent potential disasters. If she notices smoke or flames, she immediately identifies the location of the fire and contacts firefighters stationed nearby. Fire watch also records information about weather and wind patterns to help firefighters plan emergency response procedures. Rangers often work year-round in many different settings, including national parks, forests, remote mountain ranges, and wildlife reserves. During peak danger hours, it is common for a lookout team to work 24-hour shifts.
A fire lookout can inspect damage from a fire.
The main objective of a fire watch is to prevent forest fires by identifying hazards and preparing for action. Installed on a watchtower, the viewpoint can observe a large area of land with the help of binoculars and surveillance cameras. He often has access to the Internet and weather monitoring equipment so he can recognize potentially dangerous conditions. If you notice campers engaging in unsafe activities, such as leaving a fire burning unattended, you can talk to the violators in person or notify the rangers. The lookout also takes precautionary measures by recommending that a certain number of firefighters and equipment be available at base camps during fire seasons.
Fire watchers can work year-round watching for wildfires.
If smoke is detected, the fire watch quickly relays the information to headquarters via cell phones or two-way radios. It uses landmarks, the sun’s angle relative to the horizon, and global positioning system software to tell firefighters the exact location of a fire. As emergency response teams deal with the fire, the lookout tracks changes in the wind and watches for movement of the flames. In the event of a wildfire that has gotten out of control, he may call for planes to fly in to drop off liquid or foam.
The fire watch remains a key member of the emergency response team until the fire is gone. He provides weather updates, tracks the progress of fire crews, and speaks to the media to keep the public informed. After extinguishing a fire, the lookout examines the damage and carefully watches the charred ground for several days to make sure it doesn’t start again.
People don’t need much education or training to become a fire watcher in most settings. Some professionals choose to pursue two- or four-year degrees in fire science, geology, or environmental science to better prepare for the job. New employees learn about different types of monitoring equipment and emergency procedures, assisting experienced observers. Many fire watchers are also trained firefighters and can actively assist in the event of a widespread fire. In wilderness areas where government funding for fire prevention is low or unavailable, concerned individuals often volunteer to work as lookouts.