What role does an "air attack" play in fire suppression?

An "air attack" plays a crucial role in fire suppression by providing aerial support that helps control the spread of fire and assess its behavior from above. Aircraft can drop water or fire retardant directly onto the fire, creating temporary barriers to slow down or stop the fire's progress. This aerial perspective allows fire managers and crews to view the fire's behavior and movement, which is vital for developing effective strategies and making informed decisions about suppression tactics.

The ability to assess the fire's dynamics from the air contributes significantly to understanding how the fire will potentially spread and which areas may be most at risk. This information can guide ground crews in their efforts and improve overall safety, ensuring that firefighters are deployed in the most effective and safest manner possible in response to the fire's behavior.