NWCG FFT1/FFT2 case studies
NWCG FFT1/FFT2 · Put your knowledge to work in context.
The NWCG Firefighter Type 1 (FFT1) and Firefighter Type 2 (FFT2) qualifications are the entry rungs of the wildland firefighter career ladder used across U.S. federal, state, tribal, and many local and contract fire organizations. FFT2 is the basic fireline-qualified wildland firefighter; FFT1 adds leadership of a small crew segment, more independent tactical judgment, and awareness of wildland-urban interface structure defense. Neither is earned by sitting a written test. The NWCG FFT1/FFT2 case studies are 5 cases and about 2,838 words.
1Ridgeline Escape Route Compromised
You are a first-year FFT1 supervising a 12-person hand crew on a ridge above a 40-acre fire in a drainage. The slope is 35%, fuel model 10, and live fuel moisture is low.
637 words, about 3 min2Afternoon Fuel Model Break and Spotting
You are an FFT2 assigned to a 20-person initial attack crew on a fire that started in cheatgrass at the base of a north-facing slope. At 1300 the fire is 5 acres, wind is 8 mph from the west, relative humidity 35%, and temperature is 88°F.
590 words, about 3 min3Spot Fire Across Handline While Holding
You are FFT1 leading a 10-person module building handline along the left flank of a 200-acre fire. You anchored at a dozer line near a road, and the line is 150 feet long.
561 words, about 3 min4Initial Attack Span of Control and Radio Overload
You are the first qualified FFT1 to arrive at a 30-acre grass and oak woodland fire. Dispatch reports three Type 6 engines, two 10-person hand crews, one dozer, one water tender, and two helicopters assigned.
523 words, about 3 min5Dozer and Helicopter Working Near a Hand Crew
You are FFT1 with an 8-person crew holding a dozer line on a 150-acre fire. A D6 dozer is cutting line above you on a 40% slope, and a Type 2 helicopter is making bucket drops on the ridge.
527 words, about 3 min