Wildland firefighters training at Camp Williams for threat of wildfire in Utah
BLUFFDALE, Utah (KUTV) — Wildland firefighters from numerous local and federal agencies came together at Camp Williams in Bluffdale to train on various techniques and scenarios on Thursday.
“These are professionals; we’re training to do the job that needs to be done," said Tommy Braun, an engine captain with the Bureau of Land Management - Utah based out of Cedar City. "Obviously when its in someone’s backyard it’s another animal and we want to take care of it so getting this training in and doing a good job is definitely on the forefront of everyone's mind.”
The training workshop focused on the techniques used by fire engine operators. Braun elaborated on the various scenarios for fire engine crews varying from knowing how to change a flat tire, using foam and winterization near the fall months, mobile attack, laying hose lines and an entrapment scenario.
“I think it’s super valuable," said Braun, who's been with the BLM for 13 years. "This is the time we can slow things down or speed it up on purpose, people can get familiar with the processes and standard operating procedures."
RELATED STORIES:
- Officials warn of higher wildfire risk despite winter's record snowpack
- Drying vegetation ripe for wildfire in Southern Utah
- Air quality a concern in areas of Utah as smoke carries over from Canada wildfires
The Bureau of Land Management and Unified Fire Authority coordinated to put on this workshop for fire engine operators. Participating were members of UFA, BLM-Utah, BLM-Nevada and others from around the region.
As they prepare for the months with most fire potential, firefighters are always encouraging people to use their 'fire sense' to prevent human-caused wildfires.
