What is the primary function of a Brush Company in fire service?

The primary function of a Brush Company in fire service is to extinguish ground cover or grass fires. Brush Companies are specifically equipped and trained to handle wildland fires, which often occur in brush, grass, and forested areas. These companies typically utilize specialized equipment such as all-terrain vehicles, hand tools, and portable pumps, allowing them to access and navigate challenging terrains where traditional fire apparatus might struggle.

Ground cover fires present unique challenges because they can spread rapidly due to dry conditions, wind, and the type of vegetation present. The training and tactics employed by Brush Companies include the establishment of fire lines, direct suppression techniques, and the use of water-aided techniques to control and extinguish these types of fires effectively.

By focusing on these responsibilities, Brush Companies play a vital role in both protecting life and property and in the broader scope of fire prevention and management alongside other specialized units within a fire department.