What is the purpose of a fire shelter in wildfire situations?

The purpose of a fire shelter in wildfire situations is to create a barrier against heat and smoke. Fire shelters are designed to protect individuals from the extreme temperatures and radiant heat produced by wildfires, as well as to shield them from smoke inhalation. The materials used in fire shelters are reflective and insulating, which helps to maintain survivable temperatures inside the shelter even when external conditions are dire. Fire shelters are a critical component of safety for wildland firefighters and other personnel who may find themselves in life-threatening situations during wildfires.

In contrast, while having direct contact with the ground may provide some cooling benefits, it does not serve the main function of a fire shelter. Storing tools and equipment is not a purpose of fire shelters, as they are primarily for personal protection rather than storage. Additionally, serving as a base for fire operations is not the intended use of a fire shelter; rather, its primary role is to ensure the safety of personnel during extreme fire events.