In wildland fire fighting, a finger refers to what?

In the context of wildland firefighting, a finger specifically refers to a narrow extension of fire that protrudes from the main body of an active fire. This terminology helps firefighters assess and manage the spread of the fire, as fingers can create unpredictable fire behavior and pose significant challenges in controlling the fire's path. Recognizing the existence of fingers is crucial, as they can quickly grow and threaten surrounding areas, necessitating immediate attention and tactical responses to prevent further spread. Understanding this concept is essential for effective fire management and containment strategies in wildland firefighting.