You should let the Wildland Fire Lessons Learned Center prioritize your shopping list. We have the data.
Ground Truths
Not Knowing
We don’t know how to do everything, and surprises will occur. Both in the moment and afterward, not knowing is an opportunity.
Where is the Learning?
When you read reports, don’t expect the lessons to be spoon-fed to you on paper. That’s not where the learning is. Learning comes from the intentional interaction you engage in after the reading.
Be Nice
Our fireline social structure is just a scrambled version of high school. But in this environment the consequences of that behavior are drastically more severe—like your buddy in a casket severe. Communication is essential. Be nice.