What is the term for the location where a wildland or ground fire begins?

The term for the location where a wildland or ground fire begins is "area of origin." This term specifically refers to the initial point or zone where the combustion starts and is crucial for both firefighting efforts and fire investigations. Understanding the area of origin aids firefighters in determining how the fire began, the patterns of its spread, and any potential for re-ignition, which are all essential aspects in developing effective suppression strategies.

In the context of wildland firefighting, recognizing the area of origin helps responders to evaluate the fire's behavior and gather critical information that influences evacuation orders and resource allocation. Moreover, identifying this location is vital for forensic purposes, where investigators can analyze the fire's cause and any contributing factors leading to the ignition.

Each of the other terms mentioned (heel, island, pocket) refers to different concepts in fire behavior and management. For example, "heel" could relate to the back end of a fire, while "island" generally indicates an area of unburned vegetation surrounded by fire, and "pocket" may refer to a small area within a fire's perimeter. However, none of these accurately describe the origination point of the fire itself, which is why "area of origin" is the correct and relevant