Reflections on annual wildland firefighter's training (ground crews)

It is the end of February and that means that in parts of the United States the wildland firefighter crews on the ground are training new firefighters and experienced firefighters are getting refresher training. Both new recruits and experienced firefighters will be taking courses and physical tests. The physical test may include carrying a pack of a certain weight for a certain distance with a time requirement. The exact requirements will vary be agency and the type of crew. State agencies will have their requirements that may be based on federal requirements.

My point here is not to delve into the different course and testing requirements. Rather I respect and understand the need for wildland firefighters to be physically fit with the appropriate updated knowledge to work a wildfire, in some cases they are on the fireline for several days. This is physically and perhaps emotionally demanding. Not only are they working hard, they are away from their families.

In my own state of New Jersey, the New Jersey Forest Fire Service wildland firefighters will soon be going through their training. Returning wildland firefighters will be taking their annual refresher course and a pack test, both have to be successfully completed. New recruits will be successfully complete a few course in addition to the requisite physical training which includes a pack test.

I would imagine that the training also serves to help the firefighters to bond and become a cohesive unit, communicating well on the fireline and enjoying downtime together. Their lives depend on each other.

I wish all wildland firefighters, new and returning, a successful training period as you prepare for your upcoming fire season. Stay safe and thank-you for the sacrifices you make to keep us safe from wildfires.