On Thursday July 29, 2010 NYS Forest Rangers Peter Evans and Julie Harjung presented a brief review of the basics of wildland forest fires. When responding to wildland forest fires, NYS Forest Rangers and fire departments have joint jurisdiction and often work side by side. Response may include structure protection, establishing a scratch line to slow fuels in light leaf litter, direct attack on a running fire, helicopter water drops or by indirect attack to establish a control line with dozers or by hand to remove fuels and stop the progression of the fire.

Pete and Julie presented information on wildland fire terminology, scene safety, communication, personal protective gear and commonly utilized tools and equiptment. The importance of a cooperative and coordinated effort was stressed. Wildland fire fighting is hard work and numerous scene safety issues were discussed. The leading cause of fatalities include motor vehicle accidents and heart attacks. Other dangers include dehydration, heat exhaustion, dangers with cutting tools and falling of fire weakened snags and timber.

Interested members are encouraged to take the full Basic WiIdland Fire Course which is offered by the NYS Forest Rangers. A recent grant has allowed SLVFD to purchase specialized nomex wildland fire personal protective equipment or "PPE" which has been issued to some members. Additional grant monies are being pursued to continue to outfit our members with proper PPE.