You should always be in top shape and ready to go when a blaze breaks out, whether you’re a volunteer or full-time wildland firefighter. Fire season and wildland fires in general are unpredictable and require quick thinking, physical fitness, and advanced preparation. Preparation increases your chances of safety and makes you a more effective firefighter overall. Be ready for the blaze by learning ways to prepare for fire season as a wildland firefighter.
Stay in Shape
Physical fitness is a great idea no matter your occupation, but it can be a matter of life and death for wildland firefighters. Be ready to tote heavy equipment over rough terrain and ensure your endurance is at top levels with the following methods:
- Cardiovascular training—Run, swim, cycle, and exercise in ways that make your heart and lungs stronger. You’ll work better and last longer if your cardiovascular system is up to the challenge.
- Strength training—While big muscles look good, make sure you focus on exercises that build your core strength and develop your ability to lift and carry heavy things.
- Flexibility and Agility—You must be quick on your feet and able to move, duck, evade, and generally stay loose even after hours of fighting fires. Stretch, engage in yoga, and practice agility drills to reduce the possibility of pulls, strains, tears, and other injuries.
Check Your Gear
Be sure your gear is ready to go when it’s not in use. Regularly inspect your equipment to ensure it’s in great shape. Personal protective equipment (PPE) such as helmets, boots, gloves, and the like should be free from damage, and you should replace them if they have any rips, tears, or breaks. You must maintain and test your tools regularly. You must also test your communication devices, such as radios and the like, to ensure they keep you in touch with your crew—and don’t forget to replace the batteries!
Mental Preparation
Stay sharp and clear-headed as mental health is important for wildland firefighters. Engage in exercises that help you handle stress through mindfulness, breathing exercises, and ensuring you relax during your off-duty hours. Engage in scenario training with your crew through regular drills and firefighting simulations. Most importantly, communicate any concerns with your crew and accept support services whenever the job gets to you.
Enhance Your Skills
Always be learning! Keep your skills sharp and make sure you’re familiar with the latest firefighting techniques. Take refresher courses in firefighting, safety issues, new technology, first aid, and more. Study up on fire science so you know your enemy and learn all you can about evacuation plans and supply locations and allocation. Also, coordinate with your team and conduct regular meetings to discuss individual roles, and firefighting strategies and share knowledge.
Those are just a few ways to prepare for fire season as a wildland firefighter. Stay on top of them to stay safe and do your part to support your crew.
