Current Wildland Fire Information | National Interagency Coordination Center
Click on a geographic area for regional fire information.
A wildland fire is initially managed by
the local agency that has fire protection responsibility
for that area. Engines, ground crews, smokejumpers,
helicopters with water buckets, and airtankers may all be
used for initial suppression. Various local agencies may
work together, sharing personnel and equipment, to fight
new fires and those that escape initial action.
If a wildland fire grows to the point where local
personnel and equipment are not enough, the responsible
agency contacts the Geographic Area Coordination Center
(GACC) for help. The GACC will locate and dispatch
additional firefighters and support personnel throughout
the geographic area.
When GACCs can no longer meet the requests because they are supporting multiple incidents, or when GACCs are competing for resources, the request for equipment and supplies are referred to the National Interagency Coordination Center, at Boise, Idaho (Link to NIFC Tour).