Here are some numbers and a few lessons from incidents that occurred during the first half of 2020 (January - June).
Lessons
Chainsaw Work: The Basics are Complex
Two chainsaw cut incidents during 'basic' saw operations. Read, Reflect, Refocus.
COVID-19 Mitigations: Effective or Reactive?
This article is about one Hotshot Superintendent's experience implementing COVID-19 mitigations.
Is LCES Dead?
The following thoughts and observations are derived from my own perspective that is based on 25 seasons filled with two shelter deployments, plenty of near misses, getting hit with branches because I was mesmerized by how awesome falling a burning snag is, falling asleep while driving, falling out on hikes (because I suck at hiking, smoke too much). Oh yeah, as well as one divorce and four or five failed relationships.
Heat Stress: It’s Not Just about Drinking Water
Content Provided by National Technology and Development Program (NTDP) Heat Stress. Heat Cramps. Heat Exhaustion. Heatstroke... Heat-Related Injury (HRI). More than likely, you’ve heard these terms or possibly experienced symptoms yourself? At some point, we’ve all probably been on a hillside somewhere (listening to or) assisting with a medevac for a possible heat-related injury. If … Continue reading Heat Stress: It’s Not Just about Drinking Water
COVID-19 Risks: Do More Vehicles Mean More Risk? A Quantitative Approach
This article suggests some risk management tools to consider when weighing risks related to COVID-19 and Wildland Fire.
Hot Water
[This is the "Ground Truths" from the Spring 2020 Issue of Two More Chains.] Hot Water By Travis Dotson Recently, I was prompted to ask myself “Who do I want to be during this pandemic?” I immediately recalled one of many staff ride integrations I have been so fortunate to experience. (If you have yet … Continue reading Hot Water
Throwing Us a Monkey Wrench of Historic Proportions
[This article is featured in the Spring 2020 Issue of Two More Chains.] By Bre Orcasitas The Era Before COVID-19 If you stop and think about it, normal annual preparation and implementation of wildland fire resources is akin to a well-rehearsed orchestra whose members all know their part and come in on cue. An orchestra … Continue reading Throwing Us a Monkey Wrench of Historic Proportions
Rocking a Different Helmet
This wildland firefighter got smashed head first into a boulder. He is certain his unique helmet saved his life.
The Northern Rockies Training Center’s Tree Hazard Identification Simulation
Tree Hazard Identification Simulation: It is a tool that may allow you to retain some “slides”, increase your margin, or just flat out practice in an environment that is “safe to fail”.