We are similar to a regular fire department but we are trained in certain techniques. We stay in contact with the fire dispatchers at all times in order to notify them of the need for additional equipment and tools, or to detail any difficulties encountered. We rescue any fire victims, and administer emergency medical aid when needed. Collaborate with other fire fighters as a member of a firefighting crew. Patrol burned areas after fires, to locate and eliminate hot spots that may restart fires. Extinguish flames and embers to suppress fires, using shovels, engine, hand-driven water or chemical pumps. Fell trees, cut and clear brush, and dig trenches in order to create fire lines, using axes, chainsaws or shovels, to prevent the fire from spreading any further. Perform forest maintenance and improvement tasks such as: cutting brush, planting trees, building trails and marking timber. Maintain knowledge of current firefighting practices by participating in drills and by attending seminars, conventions, and conferences. Plus keeping an eye on the weather for any changes. Operate pumps connected to high-pressure hoses. Participate in physical training in order to maintain high levels of physical fitness. Establish water supplies; connect hoses, and direct water onto fires. Inform and educate the public about fire prevention. Using Smokey the Bear as our mascot. Take action to contain any hazardous chemicals that could catch fire, leak, or spill. Organize fire caches, positioning equipment for the most effective response. Using our Incident Command Post (ICP). Transport personnel and cargo to and from fire areas. Participate in fire prevention and inspection programs. Test and maintain tools, equipment, and trucks, jump gear, and parachutes (jump gear and parachutes are used out west) in order to ensure readiness for fire suppression activities. Observe forest areas from fire lookout towers in order to spot potential problems. Orient self in relation to fire, using compass and area maps, plus collect supplies and equipment. Serve as fully trained lead helicopter crewmember and as helispot manager, when needed. Drop weighted paper streamers from aircraft to determine the speed and direction of the wind at fire sites. This is the definition of being a forest fire member. Some of these tactics are used when you travel west. When out west the tactics go more into depth because of the terrain. Only You Can Prevent Forest Fires.
