Why is it important to cool down hot spots near control lines?

Cooling down hot spots near control lines is crucial because it serves as a preventive measure to ensure that the fire does not threaten those established control lines. Control lines, which can include natural barriers such as rivers and roads, or man-made lines like firebreaks, are strategically created to contain the spread of the fire. If hot spots remain near these lines, they pose a significant risk of reigniting or flaring up due to changing weather conditions or wind shifts. By actively cooling down these areas, firefighters can minimize the chance of the fire crossing the control line, thereby safeguarding the overall operation and preventing the escalation of the incident.

The significance of this action is underscored by the need for maintaining control over the fire's spread and protecting resources and lives in the vicinity.