What does it mean when a wildfire is described as 'contained'?

When a wildfire is described as 'contained,' it indicates that a control line has been established around the fire, effectively preventing it from spreading beyond that boundary. This means that firefighters have successfully created barriers, such as cleared vegetation or natural obstacles, which can stop the fire from moving outward. Containment does not mean that the fire is completely extinguished or that all burning material is out; it focuses specifically on limiting the fire’s spread within designated parameters.

In wildland firefighting terminology, being 'contained' is a critical step in fire management. It allows for more strategic approaches to extinguishing the fire since resources can be allocated to suppression efforts within the contained area, working to bring the overall situation under control.