The Laguna Fire of 1970 scorched more than 175,000 acres east of San Diego, California, killing 16 people and costing taxpayers $234 million. Resulting studies of the Laguna Fire and other catastrophic fires found that failures in communications and management… Read More ›
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Fire Facts: What is a sling load?
Alaska is a large state covering more than 663,000-square miles. Much of the state has limited access due to a lack of maintained roads and vast areas of wilderness. Helicopters are one of the primary options to assist firefighters responding… Read More ›
Grouse Creek/Garnet Creek Fire Update for July 27, 2019
The Grouse Creek fire is approximately 50,418 acres and the Garnet Creek fire is approximately 9,043 acres with a total of 87 personnel. Grouse Creek (#485) Fire growth was moderated by the weather on Friday, overcast and light rain. Fire… Read More ›
“How Do They Do It?” A Closer Look at Fire Management in Southwest Alaska.
Southwest Alaska Area Fire Management Officer (AFMO) Seth Ross pedals his bike swiftly toward helibase. One of three nearby helicopters begins to spool up, its rotors gaining momentum as five initial attack (IA) helitack firefighters wait inside, ready. Ross motions… Read More ›
UPPER YUKON Zone Fire Update – July 26, 219
Earlier storms have passed through the Upper Yukon Zone with thousands of lightning strikes this week. Drought has continued in the zone causing the trees and duff layer to be very dry making fires difficult to contain. There are 57… Read More ›