What action reduces the risk of rekindling from hidden embers along the line?

• A. Build a wooden barrier
• B. Increase fuel load near line
• C. Leave surface fuels
• D. Remove surface fuels and ensure a clean mineral-soil edge; check for and extinguish any hot spots

Answer: (D)

Rekindling risk comes from embers that can hide in residual fuels right along the line and still smolder after the main fire has passed. Clearing the line of surface fuels removes the readily ignitable material that embers would need to ignite again. Establishing a clean mineral-soil edge reduces the chance that heat and embers can smolder back into fuels and makes it easier to detect and extinguish any remaining hotspots. Thoroughly checking for and extinguishing hot spots along the line ensures no lingering embers can flare up later.

A wooden barrier isn’t reliable because it can burn, and it doesn’t remove fuels or address hidden embers. Adding fuel near the line increases risk, and leaving surface fuels leaves abundant material for rekindling.