Where should the fuel be placed when digging a fire line?

The correct placement of fuel when digging a fire line is on the outside of the line. This is done to ensure that the fire does not have access to additional fuel that would allow it to grow or spread once the line is established. By placing the fuel on the outside, it helps prevent the fire from being able to move towards it and creates a defensible space between the fire and the fuel.

Keeping fuel on the outside effectively reduces the risk of a spot fire igniting from the main fire. It also allows firefighters to create a controlled environment where they can monitor fuel sources and manage the fire behavior more effectively. Establishing the fire line with fuel positioned appropriately aids in maintaining containment strategies in wildfire operations.

The other options do not promote safety or effectiveness in managing fire lines. For instance, placing fuel on the inside of the line would directly invite fire toward it, while a designated fuel pit may not always be practical or easy to utilize in fast-moving fire situations.