1. INTERAGENCY HELITORCH and MIXING SYSTEM TRAINING

2. Unit 1 HELITORCH HISTORY & CAPABILITIES

3. Objectives Become familiar with the evolution of the Helitorch Identify advantages & disadvantages of Helitorch Operations

4. ADVANTAGES n Fewer hazards than burning by hand n Cost effective - cover large area in short time n Control fire by developing quick convection column n Thickened fuel burns longer on the ground n Lay more continuous line of fire n Helitorch easily jettisoned by pilot

6. ADVANTAGES n Effective under marginal weather, site, or fuel conditions n Burn in inaccessible areas n Burn more acres in less time than hand ignition n Smoke emission reduced by widening prescription window

8. DISADVANTAGES n May produce more fire than expected n Tanks / Drums must be D.O.T. approved n Gasoline is hazardous & highly flammable n Substantial personnel & equipment needed n Extensive training & commitment n Requires good access for fuel transportation n Costs can be significant

10. DISADVANTAGES n Requires considerable planning & organization n Safety procedures are rigorous & extensive n Hazmat removal & storage n Easy to lose control of column during break in ignition