Map and Compass Flashcards

When using a compass to travel a straight-line bearing in heavy smoke, what technique helps maintain direction?

Answer: Leapfrog — sight on a distant object along the bearing before moving

Leapfrogging involves sighting an object along the desired bearing, moving to it, then re-sighting to stay on course without constant compass checks.

What map color is typically used on USGS topographic maps to indicate water features such as streams, lakes, and swamps?

Answer: Blue

Blue is the standard USGS color for water features including rivers, lakes, and wetlands on topographic maps.

A back bearing (back azimuth) is calculated by doing what to the forward bearing?

Answer: Adding or subtracting 180°

A back azimuth is found by adding 180° if the bearing is less than 180°, or subtracting 180° if it is greater than 180°.

On a topographic map, V-shaped contour lines pointing uphill generally indicate what terrain feature?

Answer: A drainage or valley

V-shaped contours with the point of the V pointing uphill indicate a drainage, canyon, or valley — important for predicting fire spread.

What is the purpose of the declination diagram found on many USGS topographic maps?

Answer: It illustrates the angle between true north, magnetic north, and grid north

The declination diagram visually shows the angular relationship between true north, magnetic north, and grid north to help users correct compass readings.

Which map scale provides the MOST detail for navigating within a wildland fire area?

Answer: 1:24,000

A 1:24,000 scale map (7.5-minute USGS quad) provides the greatest detail, showing features at roughly 1 inch = 2,000 feet.

When a firefighter reports their location using a township and range description, what system are they using?

Answer: Public Land Survey System (PLSS)

The Public Land Survey System (PLSS) divides land into townships (6-mile squares) and ranges, widely used in western U.S. wildland fire operations.