Cannot see the forest for its trees
It is difficult to simulate wildfires, because you have to deal with external factors over which you have no control. Think of weather conditions like rain and high winds. Additionally, there are practical issues, like the power supply, that make such a simulation more difficult. Means and skills are required to simulate wildfires in a realistic manner, thereby allowing first responders to prepare effectively. With a lot of smoke and a tactical fire simulation, it is possible to create a staging that causes no environmental damage but is true to nature!
Forest fire in Barneveld, the Netherlands
In 2017, a camping site in Barneveld, the Netherlands, was the setting for a big staged forest fire. FireWare distributed more than 15 Stratus smoke generators across a strip of forest measuring over 200 meters. At the start of the scenario, the first signs of the fire were already evident. Slowly but surely the smoke pushed through the pores of the conifer hedge, which separated the campsite from the forest’s edge. One of the campsite guests raised the alarm once the smoke started the spread further and the smell of fire became more evident.
How did they do it?
Large plumes of smoke and dedicated smoke-hoses created a realistic image of smoke. Outdoor Smoke Fluid, a liquid specially developed for the simulation of wildfires, was essential. The smoke fluid has a thick non-transparent structure and lingers for a long time. Additionally, Burning Smell Extract was used to add the scent of a fire to the smoke. It helped campsite guest signalling and locating the fire. For a realistic flame image, Phoenix Silkflames and FireSpots were used. Combined with the smoke, people from all over the area thought there was really something going on!
Multidisciplinary collaboration
The first campsite guests were escorted off the site within half an hour from the scenario start. Coughing people with head wounds and open hands came walking out of their caravans and were taken to the assembly points. One by one all tents and caravans were thoroughly checked. The evacuated areas were cordoned off with tape once all guests were escorted off the site.
One of the most important learning objectives of this exercise was the multidisciplinary collaboration. The military convoy arrived and carefully counted all people, before they were escorted to the car which would take them to Barneveld’s barracks, the shelter. The military was also responsible for keeping track of everyone. The campsite was completely evacuated within two hours.
Do you want to stage a wildfire as well? For example a forest fire or a dune fire exercise? Be sure to have the right equipment and knowledge in house to make it happen. Our staging specialists are happy to discuss this with you without any obligation!
