When is the "and Run" tactic most effective to implement?

The "and Run" tactic is most effective in the early stages of a wildfire when there is light resource commitment. This approach allows for initial attacks on the fire front while simultaneously assessing the fire’s behavior and potential threat. Early implementation can leverage opportunities to control the fire before it gains momentum and spreads uncontrollably.

During this phase, resources are not yet fully deployed, which allows for more flexible maneuvering. Firefighters can strategically place resources to have the greatest impact with minimal commitment, enabling a rapid response to changing conditions. As firefighters monitor the fire’s response to initial suppression efforts, they can adjust their strategy accordingly, making this tactic valuable in gaining an early advantage in firefighting efforts.

The effectiveness of this tactic diminishes in scenarios where resources are fully committed, as the focus would then shift to containment and safety, rather than aggressive tactical maneuvers. Likewise, utilizing this tactic when the fire is slow-moving may not maximize its potential, as the slow pace allows for different strategies to be implemented. Lastly, attempting the "and Run" tactic after the fire front has passed would be impractical since the primary opportunity to impact the fire directly would have been lost.