During mobile attack operations in light fuels, where is the closest safety zone?

The closest safety zone during mobile attack operations in light fuels is typically considered to be "in the black." This term refers to areas where the fire has already burned, meaning that the fuels are consumed, and the risk of fire in that area is significantly reduced. Being "in the black" provides firefighters with a level of safety, as they are away from active flames and unburned fuels. This zone allows for a secure area to regroup, reassess, and protect resources during fire suppression operations.

While the back of the road and being in the engine may seem like potential safety zones, they do not offer the same level of protection as an area that has already burned. The back of the road may still be within the range of the fire's perimeter, and while being in the engine provides a measure of safety, it does not allow for tactical responsiveness and freedom of movement that being "in the black" offers. Thus, the most reliable and strategically sound option for a safety zone in mobile attack operations in light fuels is indeed to utilize the area that has already been burned.