A specific, predefined hazard on the fireline that compromises crew safety. In wildland firefighting, personnel are trained to memorize the standard Watchout Situations, which include scenarios like building a fireline downhill with fire below, or unburned fuel between the crew and the fire. Identifying a watchout requires immediate mitigation or a change in tactics.
Heard on the job
We have unburned fuel between us and the main fire, which is a major watchout, so let's reassess our escape routes.
Insider tip
Always paired with the Standard Firefighting Orders. If you hit a watchout, you immediately review your LACES.
Also heard as
- watch out situation