What is the area between the fingers of a wildland fire?

The area between the fingers of a wildland fire is referred to as a "pocket." In the context of wildland fire behavior, fingers are extensions of fire that move outwards from the main body of the fire, creating narrow, elongated sections. The areas between these fingers can act as zones where flames settle and are often cooler or less intense than the surrounding active flames. These pockets can influence fire spread and behavior by creating areas that may not be as susceptible to ignition or that can act as natural barriers, affecting the tactics that fire personnel utilize when combating the blaze. Understanding this terminology is crucial for effective fire management and strategic planning during wildfire response.