The following guidelines should be followed:

• The decision is made by a competent firefighter after evaluating the situation.
• Downhill line construction should not be attempted when fire is present directly below the proposed anchor point.
• The fireline should not lie adjacent to a chute or chimney that could burn out while the crew is in the vicinity.
• Communication is established between the crew working downhill and crews working toward them from below. When neither crew can adequately observe the fire, communications will be established between the crews, supervising overhead, and a lookout posted where the fire can be seen.
• The crew must be able to rapidly reach a Safety Zone from any point along the line if the fire unexpectedly crosses below them.
• A downhill line should be securely anchored at the top. Avoid underslung line if at all possible.
• Line firing should be done as the line progresses, beginning from the anchor point at the top. The burned out area provides a continuous safety zone for the crew and reduces the likelihood of fire crossing the line.
• Be aware of and avoid the 18 Watch Out Situations.
• Fully comply with the 10 Standard Fire Orders.

Richard Mangan USDA Forest Service
Technology & Development Program
Missoula, Montana USA