What process helps control wildland and ground cover fires using hand tools?

Removing the fuel is a fundamental technique used in firefighting, particularly in controlling wildland and ground cover fires. This process involves creating fire breaks or clearing vegetation to reduce the amount of combustible material available to sustain the fire. By eliminating or reducing the fuel load, firefighters can effectively inhibit the fire's ability to spread, as there will be less material for the flames to ignite and sustain themselves.

Firefighters often utilize hand tools, such as shovels, rakes, and hand saws, to physically remove vegetation or create gaps between fuels. This method is crucial in controlling wildfires because it directly addresses the fire's needs for fuel. When there is insufficient fuel, the fire cannot spread effectively, and its intensity is diminished. This technique is part of a broader strategy known as "fuel management," which focuses on altering the characteristics of vegetation to prevent the ignition and spread of fire.