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When a crew’s commute to and from base camp to their assigned portion of a fireline becomes too long of a time commitment, the crew may “spike out.” This means they camp near the fire line in order to maximize the amount of work they can accomplish each day without the added travel time. They reach their designated spike camp either by helicopter, parachuting in (smoke jumpers), or by hiking into the remote location.

It takes a coordinated effort to support these firefighters who are both working and staying in the field since they’re isolated from the main base camp. They have basic logistical needs that need to be met, such as food and water, fuel for chainsaws, and other supplies.

The primary consideration, though, is the safety and welfare of the crew. The spike camp needs to be located where the crew can maintain radio communication with the incident command post. Both a Medic and Safety Officer are often assigned to each spike camp. If the location is especially remote or in difficult terrain, a Rapid Extraction Module Support (REMS) Team may also be inserted. This provides the crew with a higher level of technical rescue capabilities.

These crews are often self-sufficient for one to two days but will then need to be re-supplied by helicopter. At times, it may be too dangerous for the crews to remain spiked out due to adverse weather conditions or the fire’s behavior. In these circumstances, they will be returned to base camp.

The Spring Creek Fire currently has 6 crews spiked out on various parts of the fire.

In the attached photo file below, a crew prepares to depart from their spike camp in Division Z on the south flank of the fire. Their gear is wrapped in a net to be carried out on a long line underneath the helicopter.