Congratulations to all the awardees and nominees. Through leadership and initiative, they have made significant contributions to the safety of the wildland fire community. These awards are well deserved.
Health/Medical
Not Unique
Many of us are drawn to this work in pursuit of intensity. Our life outside the job is often just a different flavor of intensity (not always in a healthy way). Our emotional struggles aren’t always directly associated with the job. But aspects of our profession complicate our ability to effectively tackle these types of issues—regardless of their origin.
Painful Progress
Growth from the ashes of Yarnell occurred on many fronts in many individual lives. In most cases, preceded by dark days and deep despair. Not everyone made it out of the hopelessness. But as a community, can we claim any sort of cultural catharsis? I submit that we can.
A Federal Firefighter is Diagnosed with Brain Cancer and Workers’ Compensation Covers It
An engine foreman for the U.S. Forest Service had a seizure out of the blue last year that led to the discovery of a brain tumor. With recent developments at the Department of Labor's Office of Workers' Compensation Programs (OWCP), he was able to get his medical expenses covered. This coverage comes from the 2022 … Continue reading A Federal Firefighter is Diagnosed with Brain Cancer and Workers’ Compensation Covers It
LLC Incident Report Staff Picks
The Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center staff members share their favorite incident reports from 2022.
Stuff You Should Have
You should let the Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center prioritize your shopping list. We have the data.
Lessons from 2022: AEDs
Knowing where to find your AED, how and when to use it, and how to store and maintain it are critical. Much like with a fire extinguisher, an AED must be maintained, batteries checked, and people must be trained in its use.
2022 Year-End Infographic
The 2022 Year-End Infographic is out. Take a look. Ponder. Discuss. Then take action on the lessons.
The 2021 NWCG Emergency Medical Service Award Recipients
The NWCG Emergency Medical Committee annually recognizes individuals and groups who have demonstrated outstanding actions or accomplishments that are above and beyond the expectation of one’s normal mission or job duties. The 2021 awards honor twelve individuals and three crews.
The Workforce We Have
The workforce we have should not leave this career wrestling with burnout, anxiety, trauma, stress, addiction, self-harm, or suicide. We, as a collective community of those who work in wildfire, owe more to ourselves and our peers.