Which resource combination is listed for a 3rd Alarm Wildland Interface Fire?

• A. 3 Engines, 1 Medic, 3 Brush, 3 Tenders, 1 Battalion
• B. 1 Hazmat, 1 Foam, 2 Engines, 1 Medic, 1 Battalion, 1 Safety, PIO, Bureau
• C. 1 Hazmat, 1 Foam, 1 Aerial, 2 Engines, 2 Medics, 2 Tenders, 2 Battalions, 1 Safety, PIO, Bureau
• D. 2 Engines, 2 Medics, 1 Brush, 2 Tenders, 1 Battalion

Answer: (A)

In a 3rd Alarm Wildland Interface Fire, the focus is on quickly establishing a strong water supply and reliable suppression in a mixed urban-wildland environment, while also maintaining clear command and control. The resource mix that includes three engines, three brush units, three water tenders, one medic, and one Battalion Chief provides exactly what’s needed: multiple engine teams to position along the fire line and support suppression work; brush units specialized for wildland terrain and structure defense; water tenders to deliver ample water where hydrants aren’t readily available; a medical unit to address on-scene injuries or medical needs; and a chief officer to oversee strategy and operations.

The other option sets introduce resources that aren’t as aligned with a WUI 3rd Alarm. Hazmat, foam, and PIO or Bureau resources are more typical of different incident types or higher-level urban incidents. An aerial device isn’t as critical for this scenario at this alarm level, and the counts of engines, brush, tenders, and command personnel in those alternatives don’t deliver the same balanced mix of suppression capability, wildland readiness, water supply, and command needed for a 3rd Alarm in a Wildland Interface context.