What is the fire heel?

The fire heel refers to the area that is the opposite of the fire head. In a wildfire context, the "head" is generally the most active and fastest-moving part of the fire, often driven by wind and other environmental factors. Conversely, the heel of the fire is characterized by its relatively lower intensity and slower movement. Understanding this distinction is crucial for fire behavior analysis and for strategizing firefighting efforts. Recognizing the dynamics between the head and heel informs firefighters about where to apply resources effectively and helps them predict the fire's movement.