What is the purpose of a McLeod tool in wildland firefighting?

The purpose of a McLeod tool in wildland firefighting is primarily to create fire line. This tool is designed with dual functionality: one side features a rake for scraping and moving debris, while the other side has a hoe for cutting and cultivating soil. By efficiently removing vegetation and other materials, firefighters can establish a fire line, which acts as a barrier to slow or stop the advance of fire.

Creating a fire line is crucial in wildland firefighting as it helps to reduce the fuel available to the fire, minimizing its intensity and spread. The McLeod tool's effectiveness in manipulating the terrain makes it a vital piece of equipment for ground crews engaged in firefighting efforts. Other tools mentioned, such as those for cutting trees or transporting water, do not address the primary role of creating a defensible space against wildfires. Monitoring smoke conditions is generally performed by various detection systems and personnel trained for that specific purpose, rather than through the use of a McLeod tool.