What do topographic maps show?

• A. Hydrological boundaries only.
• B. Color codes for runways.
• C. Weather patterns for the next 24 hours.
• D. Hills, slopes, and low-lying areas that may affect response routes or fire spread.

Answer: (C)

Topographic maps depict the lay of the land—the shape and elevation of the terrain. They use contour lines and shading to show hills, slopes, valleys, ridges, and depressions. For airport fire and rescue, this terrain information is crucial because it helps you plan routes that avoid steep grades, anticipate how slope affects pump pressure and water supply, and predict how fire might spread uphill or flow through low-lying areas. Weather patterns for the next 24 hours are not shown on topographic maps; those come from weather forecast sources.