In the standard handline construction sequence, what is the correct order of steps?

• A. Establish an anchor point, lay out the line route, clear fuels and expose mineral soil along the line.
• B. Clear fuels, then establish anchor, then lay out the line route.
• C. Lay out the line route, establish an anchor point, then clear fuels.
• D. Build a fence, plant trees, then water the area.

Answer: (A)

The sequence tested is about establishing a fixed reference, then defining the path, and finally preparing the line itself. Start by establishing an anchor point so you have a stable starting reference for the work. Next, lay out the line route to precisely define where the handline will go. Only then clear fuels and expose mineral soil along that defined line. This order keeps work aligned to a solid starting point and a planned path, and ensures the area along the line is prepared to resist flame contact by removing fuels down to mineral soil. Clearing fuels before anchoring or before laying out the route can lead to drift or misalignment, and actions like building a fence or planting trees are unrelated to handline construction.