156 PRACTICAL FORESTRY 
tracks, to eliminate all danger from flying sparks; to 
ditch all swamp-lands to water or mineral soil on 
the outer edge of the lane, and to constantly use 
efficient spark-arresters on their engines. Similar 
lanes should be constructed along all public roads. 
In this way, what are now points of danger, from 
which the majority of fires start, would become 
means for the prevention of its spread, and would 
serve at the same time as vantage-points in combat- 
ing it. Whenever possible these fire lanes should 
be kept under cultivation, in other places the brush 
should be cut, and all combustible materials burned 
at a time when there is no danger of setting fire to 
the adjoining woods. Sheep may be used to good ad- 
vantage on fire lanes in some countries to keep grass 
and weeds in check. 
The usual method of extinguishing extensive fires 
is by “ back-firing” or “ counter-firing.” This is, 
however, dangerous work, and should not be at- 
tempted save by those who are experienced and capa- 
ble. Very often the back-fires, set by inexperienced, 
excited persons, have not only resulted in disastrous 
conflagrations, but have rendered the skilful work of 
others of no avail. For the extinguishment of sur- 
face fires, shovels and hard work are usually suffi- 
cient. It is often possible to beat out surface fires 
with a green bough or bush. In the extinguishment 
