Because hot wind dry the plants so with just a little they catch fire, and another big problem is spotting; I'm a volunteer wildland firefighter in Liguria (Italy) and last summer there was a fire, at a certain point wind changed direction, so started lots of spots behind us (the fire nimbly passed a 10 meter wide paved road in no time at all.), there wasn't air support except a little helicopter with a 600lt bucket because of other fires in central Italy and Sardinia, so we had to retreat a lot of times due to the speed of the flames and the speed of spotting behind us, it was a forest of pines and small shrubs like heather, it was a very steep area, we managed to slow down the flames only with foaming agent.
These guys are awesome...any wildland firefighter is awesome. But unfortunately, there are some viewers who have no idea what its like to fight a wildland fire or any clue how to do it. You don't use water most of the time because there are only limited amounts of water and these fires can be huge. You have to starve the fire of fuels to make it go out. They are not landacapers...they work a lot harder than most of us. 16 to 20 hour shifts...and if you just let it burn, well, then the fire could become massive and put of control, and thus be almost if not impossible to get it back under control. This is just scratching the surface. Maybe you critics can do a little research before making ignorant comments and try to show a little respect and gratitude towards these guys and gals.
my dad is a forest fire fighter and most people don't understand or honor them for what they do. I don't see my dad often during the summer because he is always out battling fires.
I'm a wildland firefighter and a structure fire worker we fight fire with fire and sometimes we will bring attack line two different situations with a brush truck to put out a forest fire if it's not as big if not we'll dig fire line and fight fire with fire
I really love how this started out as a CF, and then the crew got organized and did what a hand crew is truly capable of! Makes me miss putting out fires
+Ritz Crazie The "spot fires" got started from flying burning embers from the main fire picking up and blowing them towards the unburnt area. Think of the sparks you see floating up from a camp fire times 1000.
I am a civilian living through huge wildfires right now in the state of Oregon, and just want to let all of you who fight these types of fires know you are respected and appreciated. Thank you for letting me sleep safely at night despite knowing there's a raging fire just a few miles south of me :)
@@MyFireVideos Already done! My whole family has all of our valuable belongings in bags ready to go at a moment's notice. We also have food and water ready to go as well as a first aid kid and emergency radio. The winds have died down and we have rain coming in on Monday as well as a western wind bringing in some moisture sooner than that, so we will more than likely be okay. But we are ready for the worst, just in case.
Man, that got crazy in seconds. Also must suck to see all your progress lost because of a couple spots and wind blowing it. Continue doing what you do!
I'm in the wildland academy this year and getting on a type two intial crew and these real videos are always great to watch, no bs or cuts, raw fire fighting footage🔥🔥
im on my first year on a hand crew. we were holding for a training burn a few weeks ago, when in a matter of seconds, i felt cold wind shift, and heard a chief telling the guys burning to run, and the calm grass fire suddenly erupted into a massive firestorm. as quickly as it came, it was gone. it was a terrifying reminder of the nature of the job. still excited to put in some work this season!
That's some awesome eye opening footage right there. Thanks for sharing it! That work rems repetitive and super tiring. Really wish they would get the recognition they deserve
Stoked for my first dispatch bags packed and waiting for the Call. I will most likely be doing alot of mop up for the end of the season. Watching you cut line was cool. I saw a handful of things like they missed that spot and then you go and clean it up like linking the line to the road and then clearing the grass under and around the rock. Smart man!
I'm one of the combi guys with a mustache. My friend had the camera on his helmet and gave me permission to use the footage. You can see me running after a spot fire.
Also good s.a. Doing practice lines we all got blinders on and werent looking around us. Good to see how you kind of look back and check around for spots or the fire jumping the line!
I on the mission valley IA crew in Montana. love watchin fire vids makes me want to jump through the screen, grab a rogue, and get to cuttin line. #fireneversleeps
It really really was. It turned direct attack into indirect real quick. It was a long day. I'm glad my friend recorded us because it's fun to look back.
That shit just appears like magic. One second there is no fire then you turn around and there is four or five spots of fire. Really puts into perspective and it’s not easy to put out either.
Everyone's shovels are bent - no wonder it's so hard to do that job :-). You guys are awesome. If I wasn't a seriously old fart, I'd love to get out in the woods with you guys. Stay safe man!!
I HAVE SO MUCH RESPECT FOR YOU FIGHTING THESE FIRES I NEVER REALLY THOUGHT ABOUT WHAT A WILDLAND FIREFIGHTER GOES THROUGH EVERYTIME HE DEPLOYS YOUR MORE OF A MAN THAN I COULD EVER BE I HAVE NEVER MET YOU BUT BE CAREFUL WHEN YOU GO OUT BROTHER!!!
If you're calling in drops, learn how to use a mirror if you don't already know. We can see mirror flashes from a mile away. Shinning a single cell LED flashlight at us doesn't cut it. Fold the corners of your neon panel to indicate an arrow of the direction you want the drop laid in. Every helicopter has a compass, so give us continental directions like "drop SW to NE along the east side of this fire line", or "drop on a heading of about 030 degrees" Most importantly make sure all your guys are clear before the drop. The last thing any pilot wants to do is crush somebody with the water, or bring down trees on them. Thanks for what you do and I look forward to working with you guys soon. God bless!
Hey, cool video! Wish there was more like this on youtube. Just wondering what hand crew this was and if that was acceptable practice for leaving that log down, that crossed the hand line, around the 15 minute mark, on the video. i'm sure you guys knew what you were doing, but just curious on why nobody called for the saws to come back to take care of that issue...
Several guys had Pulaski axes and could have chopped it in two in a few quick hits. Should not of left it and saws were overkill plus to close to the dirt. Would have killed that chain fast. Otherwise did a good job. A bit unorganized at the beginning tho.
Saws were way ahead. The fire had changed directions. We kept a look out back there. We sometimes did a quick scratch line then clean it up and improve it later. You are right, don't leave burning stuff over the line.
My channel is full of fire fighting videos. The few go pro ones were not by me. The rest were all taken by me on various phones and cameras over the last 6 years.
I'm active duty infantry marine coming toward the end of my contract in the next 6 months. I hate the bureaucracy and chickenshit machismo of the marine corps but I love the field and getting dirty every once in a while. How well would my skills in the marines transfer to this line of work?
I've worked with former marine infantry in this job. As long as you're willing to learn and work well with others i think you'll have a blast. We learned a lot from our marine too! Do it. Just know that it's usually seasonal so you'll need work in the winter too.
liberandon well, for one you'd never fail a pack test, you have experience with heavy hikes (your web gear bag plus your red bag can reach you to 65 pounds all together which is the maximum.
I live in Richmond and the only wildland fire crews I know are up in the mountains, but we don't have many fires because one minute it's raining and next its 100 degrees out that's how Virginia is lol, like how it snowed one day and the next it was 80 degrees!
+Matthew Howard A lot of states (I know VT, NH, CT, and MA for sure in the east) have shot crews for in state fires, and then they get deployed out west when they need help out there. It also allows the host state to request the same in the event of a big fire. I just looked it up and Virginia has one based out of Augusta Springs.
Why do the guys shovel away from the fire? I'd read that risks throwing embers out, if you get a shovel full of fire. It also makes a higher fire load outside the fire line. I've heard to shovel towards the fire. Anyone know for sure?
Nope, pull your line away from the fire, you take the scrape far enough off the black edge so you don't pull embers onto the green side of the line. There will however be times that you pull the line in, i.e. steep over slung line, but it is standard to pull the berm away from the black. Pulling your line into the black creates a smoldering berm right on the edge of your line that can spot over, create more mop-up, and it looks sloppy.
What is the reason behind their rucks hanging so low ? The army thought me the higher up you wear your ruck, the easier the weight gets and the better for your back. Is it balance reasons for when they use their shovels & axes & such ?
It is not a ruck. Think of it as a big fanny pack. It is low because we work bent all the way over then the weight just rests on top of your hips instead of pulling on your shoulders.
Very good video and I also know what y’all do the same because I’m on a volunteer fire department and half the time we don’t use water and all we mostly have are woodland fires
Thanks. It was freaky, we were looking down, just working on the one, then next thing we knew, there were spots everywhere. The only way was to pull back and go indirect.
I've recently seen Only the Brave and was curious about what was the purpose of pouring fire in the area they did the ground work on? is it to burn all the burning agent in that area so that when the fire get there, there's nothing left to burn?
naruto6302 Yes, exactly. You remove the fuel or burn it to stop the fire's progress. Check out my review of the movie! th-cam.com/video/wmpejh0XFNs/w-d-xo.html
I have all the respect in the world for these guys, heck I actually want to volunteer, but what exactly is the point of fighting fires in this regard? I am not saying they're wrong, I just don't understand the point. Is it to control the spread rate or to sort of guide it toward an area that is okay to burn? Or is it like a natural reserve like a park?
Stay in school. Keep your legal record clean. Read "young men and fire," "fire on the mountain," and "the art of war." Stay in good shape. Stay hydrated and be a team player.
You have to have water to use it. Structure firefighters hook to a hydrant. You can use wildland engines and water tenders, but not everyone has one available. Depending on the topography, you may not be able to get an engine to the fire. Looking at this one, you have a dirt road, and could have done a hose lay, but you fight fire with the resources you have not what you wish you had.
I'm a structural firefighter, so we covered a few chapters on wild land firefighting; What I don't understand is why the rural departments out there cant have a tender parked on a distant road for bulk water source, and have 6-wheelers with 70 gallon tanks & a pump going and getting some water on there? I understand not everybody has them, but i look at 10 guys digging at one little spot of fire in the grass, when just a few gallons of water will do? Ive done it before, I understand the fire travels underground same with a marsh, but water still does help.
Jordan Thayer Lots of the time, you are just too far away to have water readily available, or you are first on the scene and are conducting "I.A." or Initial Attack, where you just use what you have til slow tenders etc can get there.
nudist1033 Indeed it does. It travels via tree/plant roots. That's the main reason why it takes weeks to put out marsh fires, because the only way to stop it, is to dig up the ground.
Just as the crew started going direct on the section that spotted I thought “oh man someone should’ve tied it in with the road, and seconds later you came in and cleaned up the section and anchored in with the road.
I'm really considering going for this. What things should I know/prepare for before hand? How long can a season last for typically? If you don't mind me asking, but how much can one make in a season(roughly)? Good to find more videos that show the perspective of those in it.
You can make from like 9000 in five months to 20000. It depends on a lot. You should practice hiking around with 45 lbs on your back, Also running and light weight lifting would be good. And make sure to eat right. You should be a team player, hard worker, able to get along with others, able to handle downtime, able to follow orders, and you should pay attention to EVERYTHING that is going on around you, aka situational awareness. Also it wouldn't hurt to read "Fire on the Mountain." -Thanks for watching and good luck!
this past year was my first season, TALK TO SOMEONE IN THE FIELD BEFORE YOU MAKE ANY CHOICE TO START. there were a few guys i worked with who hated it. its not fame and glory. its dirty hard work that drains you. you gotta be able to get along with everyone, you dont and things will go to shit fast. think about it long and hard. also if you have the chance go through a fire training program or volunteer at your local station. the extra training will pay off when your in a tight spot and the guys around you start losing it. its definitely rewarding work at the end of the day, but dont get caught up in the fantasy of it all, its not, its hard dirty work. but with the right mindset and group of guys its a lot of fun too
1. Is it difficult to become a wildland firefighter as in requirements? 2. Is the job only active during fire season? 3. Also do you have to live in a station, or do they just call you when there is a fire? 4. Is cancer a likely link to the job?
1. No. You need a "red card" then usually your department will fill you in on the rest. 2. Normally yes, but there are some agencies that have full time work. 3. I was always just called in to fires, but other agencies may be different, like if the station is really far away from civilization. 4. Yes. But then again, so is being human. (6 Fire Seasons, no regrets).
What crew are you apart or where apart of if you’re no longer firefighting I get a few wild fires every year where I live my respects are with the brave men and women who go and fight these fires.
Hey what boots do you recommend, naturally screwed leather and a certain height and all that. But is there a particular brand you have had good experience with in your 6 seasons? Next season will be my first one
I used redwing wild land boots for all 6 seasons. They oil them for free and give me new laces in between every fire. Vibram bottom, all leather, up 8 inches with a "loggers heal."
This is currently my dream job, I just applied to Cal Fire as a seasonal firefighter hoping to get a call back. Anyone got some good advice that I can take with me on my journey?
You need to find various departments and find out when they do their hiring and what they are asking for. Take your red card class so you will be more attractive to a department. Good luck.
I was wondering what boots the guy with the camera has on. I’ve seen them before on some fires when I was on camp crew. Finally met the age requirement and about to start my first season in a couple weeks.
Luke O in case you weren't up to speed. That part of the states has been under serious drought conditions for years now. It is a precious comodity that they cant just sling around like pavement queens (no offense to the structure ffs here, i am one myself). Also water isnt always the best tool for the job in these cases.
BucketOfCandy 05 Full time from april to october ish. Never do it for free. For some people it is full time all year, fires in the summer, and random projecty stuff in the winter. It depends on where you get hired. Again, don't do this for free.
MyFireVideos ok thanks im in highschool and im trying to get into the explorer program so I can do that until im old enough to get into firefighting or military
BucketOfCandy 05 you rarely use a hose in wildland fires. not enough water to put out an entire forest, so you dig around it and let it burn out, but put out the spot fires past the fire line. in fact, only engine crews run hose, and that's upon assignment and experience. you can do municipal, but that's months of training rather than a few weeks, and a couple bucks for your red bag.
Fire job applications open January 8 and close on Jan 13. Also the minimum (some crew ask more) physical requirements for hotshots are. Required physical test consists of: The pack test - carrying a 45 pound pack 3 miles in under 45 minutes. Along with the pack test the applicant is expected to try and meet the goals listed below: 4 -7 pull-ups, depending on body weight 45 sit-ups in under a minute 25 push-ups in under a minute 10 bar dips 1 1/2 mile run under 10 minutes and 35 seconds After completing the physical training test listed above, all Silver State Hotshots must participate in daily physical activities. These activities consist of stretching for 15 minutes, running 3-10 miles, plus a 1-2 mile hike with an elevation gain of 1000-2000 ft. wearing full line gear, followed by a variety of calisthenics.
I'm in college and there's not a lot you can do unless your school has structural fire fighting courses. I started when I was 19 but there's a lot of people in their early 20s. Now's the time to start looking for a company so that you can take the classes and the pack test.
Anyone else here in 2024? This is one of the best wildland firefighting videos on TH-cam! Can you post more?
Look at the veg at about the five minute mark..fire history in the area. This place likes to burn!
It’s so crazy how fast that vegetation catches fire. Mad respect for all of you, I hope to join y’all on the fire line very soon.
Because hot wind dry the plants so with just a little they catch fire, and another big problem is spotting; I'm a volunteer wildland firefighter in Liguria (Italy) and last summer there was a fire, at a certain point wind changed direction, so started lots of spots behind us (the fire nimbly passed a 10 meter wide paved road in no time at all.), there wasn't air support except a little helicopter with a 600lt bucket because of other fires in central Italy and Sardinia, so we had to retreat a lot of times due to the speed of the flames and the speed of spotting behind us, it was a forest of pines and small shrubs like heather, it was a very steep area, we managed to slow down the flames only with foaming agent.
th-cam.com/video/i9aNSlDQ5v4/w-d-xo.html
#ChainsawOverKill
#ElectrifyTheFireLine
#DownWithWildFires
These guys are awesome...any wildland firefighter is awesome. But unfortunately, there are some viewers who have no idea what its like to fight a wildland fire or any clue how to do it. You don't use water most of the time because there are only limited amounts of water and these fires can be huge. You have to starve the fire of fuels to make it go out. They are not landacapers...they work a lot harder than most of us. 16 to 20 hour shifts...and if you just let it burn, well, then the fire could become massive and put of control, and thus be almost if not impossible to get it back under control. This is just scratching the surface. Maybe you critics can do a little research before making ignorant comments and try to show a little respect and gratitude towards these guys and gals.
my dad is a forest fire fighter and most people don't understand or honor them for what they do. I don't see my dad often during the summer because he is always out battling fires.
Matthew Wilie oh okay you answered my question. Thank you
I'm a wildland firefighter and a structure fire worker we fight fire with fire and sometimes we will bring attack line two different situations with a brush truck to put out a forest fire if it's not as big if not we'll dig fire line and fight fire with fire
I did a fire season back in 2017, 4 24 hour shifts and the rest were all 16s . Best time I’ve ever had in my life
Matthew Wilie 16 to 20 hours that’s on a easy day try more like 72 hours
The teamwork involved, I'm so stoked I got hired onto a crew
How’s the pay?
This video was taken when I was on a Type 2 IA (Initial Attack) crew
Really good for the limited amount of training you need to get hired! Lots of overtime.
MyFireVideos interesting after the wild fire season what then?
@@XxJD1RTYxX I did retail and college in the off seasons. Others filed for unemployment but I have to have a job to feel good about myself.
Really good example of situational awareness and decision making pulling back from all of those spot fires.
Yep! Risk a little to save a little
Wish there was more raw footage of cutting line similar to this, makes for great watching.
Thanks for watching! Check out my other fire videos!
I really love how this started out as a CF, and then the crew got organized and did what a hand crew is truly capable of! Makes me miss putting out fires
+Ritz Crazie The "spot fires" got started from flying burning embers from the main fire picking up and blowing them towards the unburnt area. Think of the sparks you see floating up from a camp fire times 1000.
I am a civilian living through huge wildfires right now in the state of Oregon, and just want to let all of you who fight these types of fires know you are respected and appreciated. Thank you for letting me sleep safely at night despite knowing there's a raging fire just a few miles south of me :)
With large fires so close by, it may be wise to have a go bag with a 72 hour kit in case you have to be evacuated
@@MyFireVideos Already done! My whole family has all of our valuable belongings in bags ready to go at a moment's notice. We also have food and water ready to go as well as a first aid kid and emergency radio. The winds have died down and we have rain coming in on Monday as well as a western wind bringing in some moisture sooner than that, so we will more than likely be okay. But we are ready for the worst, just in case.
Man, that got crazy in seconds. Also must suck to see all your progress lost because of a couple spots and wind blowing it. Continue doing what you do!
David Goggins brought me here!
That's nice of him!
I'm in the wildland academy this year and getting on a type two intial crew and these real videos are always great to watch, no bs or cuts, raw fire fighting footage🔥🔥
Glad to help. Stay hydrated. Stay alert. Be a team player......
....bring a book.
@@MyFireVideos 😏
im on my first year on a hand crew. we were holding for a training burn a few weeks ago, when in a matter of seconds, i felt cold wind shift, and heard a chief telling the guys burning to run, and the calm grass fire suddenly erupted into a massive firestorm. as quickly as it came, it was gone. it was a terrifying reminder of the nature of the job. still excited to put in some work this season!
Holy cow! Be careful and be aware! Thank you for sharing!
So awesome I’m hoping to get hired soon in central Alabama as a type 2 Wildland firefighter!!! So excited
Good luck!
That's some awesome eye opening footage right there. Thanks for sharing it! That work rems repetitive and super tiring. Really wish they would get the recognition they deserve
Great video with light wind conditions and the fire still jumped on them about 40ft
I USED TO FIGHT FIRE FOR THE TAHOE HOTSHOTS ( HOBART )
SEASONS 10-11
RIGHT ON COOL VIDEO.
Ginip Ginab Right on! I bet you miss it.
Good accountability. I love this video!!! Great example of what to do right.
Stoked for my first dispatch bags packed and waiting for the Call. I will most likely be doing alot of mop up for the end of the season. Watching you cut line was cool. I saw a handful of things like they missed that spot and then you go and clean it up like linking the line to the road and then clearing the grass under and around the rock. Smart man!
I'm one of the combi guys with a mustache. My friend had the camera on his helmet and gave me permission to use the footage. You can see me running after a spot fire.
Also good s.a. Doing practice lines we all got blinders on and werent looking around us. Good to see how you kind of look back and check around for spots or the fire jumping the line!
@@MyFireVideos badass! Thanks for being out there. Im ready for the first roll to kick my ass 😅
Stay hydrated. Bring wetwipes. And a book.
@@MyFireVideos Most definitely! Thanks
with what’s going on right now. i appreciate your guys dedication and passion to save our trees🤙🏾 stay safe
Thank you for you services stopping fire helping our citizens feel safe
Thank you
I on the mission valley IA crew in Montana. love watchin fire vids makes me want to jump through the screen, grab a rogue, and get to cuttin line. #fireneversleeps
Stay safe out there!
Good copy brotha. Stay safe as well🤙🏽
Thanks!
Really nice line and video. I love how it is raw
Thank you guys for all the hard work to keel us alive
These guys are machines.
Thank you. I was a very tired machine at the end of this day.
MyFireVideos It's awesome that you guys do this. Considering getting into this, my family has a history of firefighters.
Trash
Call in a drop and request a dozer
Word.. crew 3 hogs La cima fire center.el cojon 👊✨ sheeeesh...💥🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
It's crazy how fast that thing spread
It really really was. It turned direct attack into indirect real quick. It was a long day. I'm glad my friend recorded us because it's fun to look back.
That shit just appears like magic. One second there is no fire then you turn around and there is four or five spots of fire. Really puts into perspective and it’s not easy to put out either.
Nice video. I start working for cal fire a couple years ago.
Jesse morrow thanks. be safe
MyFireVideos you to brother
Everyone's shovels are bent - no wonder it's so hard to do that job :-). You guys are awesome. If I wasn't a seriously old fart, I'd love to get out in the woods with you guys. Stay safe man!!
You still doing ok Mr. Connor? I just like to see how people who posted comments from a while ago are doing!
Guys great work but I have to ask why dont you use fire swatters , Im a wildland firefighter in Spain and we use fire swatters all the time
I HAVE SO MUCH RESPECT FOR YOU FIGHTING THESE FIRES I NEVER REALLY THOUGHT ABOUT WHAT A WILDLAND FIREFIGHTER GOES THROUGH EVERYTIME HE DEPLOYS YOUR MORE OF A MAN THAN I COULD EVER BE I HAVE NEVER MET YOU BUT BE CAREFUL WHEN YOU GO OUT BROTHER!!!
I WILL PRAY FOR YOU AND YOUR TEAM!
Women are out there too.
6 years ago i watched this video as this started a passion wildland fire fighting.
Good to hear!
@@MyFireVideos hey man how can I become one of these after high school?
Find somewhere to take a "red card" course. Then start looking around for a hand crew you can start on. Start looking early
If you're calling in drops, learn how to use a mirror if you don't already know. We can see mirror flashes from a mile away. Shinning a single cell LED flashlight at us doesn't cut it. Fold the corners of your neon panel to indicate an arrow of the direction you want the drop laid in. Every helicopter has a compass, so give us continental directions like "drop SW to NE along the east side of this fire line", or "drop on a heading of about 030 degrees" Most importantly make sure all your guys are clear before the drop. The last thing any pilot wants to do is crush somebody with the water, or bring down trees on them. Thanks for what you do and I look forward to working with you guys soon. God bless!
Hey, cool video! Wish there was more like this on youtube. Just wondering what hand crew this was and if that was acceptable practice for leaving that log down, that crossed the hand line, around the 15 minute mark, on the video. i'm sure you guys knew what you were doing, but just curious on why nobody called for the saws to come back to take care of that issue...
+Gabe Mahlum I thought the same.
No its not
Several guys had Pulaski axes and could have chopped it in two in a few quick hits. Should not of left it and saws were overkill plus to close to the dirt. Would have killed that chain fast. Otherwise did a good job. A bit unorganized at the beginning tho.
Saws were way ahead. The fire had changed directions. We kept a look out back there. We sometimes did a quick scratch line then clean it up and improve it later. You are right, don't leave burning stuff over the line.
Keep up the good work much love and respect.
Looks like some of those many Sawyers could’ve been back cleaning up some of those fallen logs and trees in the fire line. Great video though!
Been there done that. Love your videos 👍💯
Thank you for watching!
Awesome video, raw videos are the best.
Thanks for watching. I thought about editing it down, but the whole thing is awesome. It was a crazy day. My friend filmed us.
MyFireVideos
I'm glad you didn't. Upload more if hes got em! What crew is this by the way?
My channel is full of fire fighting videos. The few go pro ones were not by me. The rest were all taken by me on various phones and cameras over the last 6 years.
I miss those days
Me too
That's when I was a young strapping lad
@@charlesgreen3214 me too!🤣
so insane how the fire travels. turn around and suddenly every bush around you is on fire.
Seriously. That's what I thought too. That's when it was time to reevaluate going direct, pull back, and go indirect.
@@MyFireVideos Good job man. You guys set up a real nice line after too.
I'm active duty infantry marine coming toward the end of my contract in the next 6 months.
I hate the bureaucracy and chickenshit machismo of the marine corps but I love the field and getting dirty every once in a while.
How well would my skills in the marines transfer to this line of work?
I've worked with former marine infantry in this job. As long as you're willing to learn and work well with others i think you'll have a blast. We learned a lot from our marine too! Do it. Just know that it's usually seasonal so you'll need work in the winter too.
Look into the Southwest Desert Conservation Corps Veteran Fire Crew.
***** Agreed. Just take the red card course then someone will hire you as long as you are not a total D bag.
liberandon well, for one you'd never fail a pack test, you have experience with heavy hikes (your web gear bag plus your red bag can reach you to 65 pounds all together which is the maximum.
The marine guys always seem to have an easier time with pack tests. I hate it.
What is that fire pack do they still make them?
Numerous spot fires across the line. Wind changing direction, Good communication though! Pull out
Did you guys work for the forest service? I’m looking at applying for the next fire season but I don’t know what organization to go with
I actually worked for a sherif's dept wildland fire division. See if you can meet people from various organizations and ask them about it.
Take any fire job you are offered
I wish this kind of thing existed in VA. Aside from the Dismal Swamp fire a few years ago, we just don't have many wild-land fires.
I live in Richmond and the only wildland fire crews I know are up in the mountains, but we don't have many fires because one minute it's raining and next its 100 degrees out that's how Virginia is lol, like how it snowed one day and the next it was 80 degrees!
+Matthew Howard A lot of states (I know VT, NH, CT, and MA for sure in the east) have shot crews for in state fires, and then they get deployed out west when they need help out there. It also allows the host state to request the same in the event of a big fire. I just looked it up and Virginia has one based out of Augusta Springs.
Why do the guys shovel away from the fire? I'd read that risks throwing embers out, if you get a shovel full of fire. It also makes a higher fire load outside the fire line. I've heard to shovel towards the fire. Anyone know for sure?
Nope, pull your line away from the fire, you take the scrape far enough off the black edge so you don't pull embers onto the green side of the line. There will however be times that you pull the line in, i.e. steep over slung line, but it is standard to pull the berm away from the black. Pulling your line into the black creates a smoldering berm right on the edge of your line that can spot over, create more mop-up, and it looks sloppy.
ALSO WINDS CAN CHANGE ANYTIME...THEY ARE THE 1ST CREW IN TRYING TO KILL THE FUEL AROUND THE FIRE
out of curiosity, will robots replace the need for humans to dig fire lines?
Maybe in 100 years
No machine will ever be able to do a job as efficiently as humans. And for what? That would Unemploy thousands of people.
What is the reason behind their rucks hanging so low ?
The army thought me the higher up you wear your ruck, the easier the weight gets and the better for your back.
Is it balance reasons for when they use their shovels & axes & such ?
It is not a ruck. Think of it as a big fanny pack. It is low because we work bent all the way over then the weight just rests on top of your hips instead of pulling on your shoulders.
@@MyFireVideos makes sense, thanks for the answer
Are they throwing the dirt on pieces of brush to starve potential points for fire to ignite of oxygen?
Is this through the USFS or a wild land firefighting crew?
A crew that was part of the sherif's dept
I’m sure a ton of training goes into fire fighting. But it appears a good measure of common sense also plays a part. Thanks for the video.
Thom Thumbe Yes and an even bigger yes.
Very good video and I also know what y’all do the same because I’m on a volunteer fire department and half the time we don’t use water and all we mostly have are woodland fires
Is it possible to order up a bobcat/dozer on this road to assist creating a break?
Yes. Problem is it could be days away.
Those spots got going in a hurry, good job pulling back and leting the fire do its thing.
Thanks. It was freaky, we were looking down, just working on the one, then next thing we knew, there were spots everywhere. The only way was to pull back and go indirect.
Ive once done a 72 hr shift in 1 day. I did it tomorrow
Surprisingly therapeutic
My old crew boss called it zen gardening...
That fire started charging man good one guys
I've recently seen Only the Brave and was curious about what was the purpose of pouring fire in the area they did the ground work on? is it to burn all the burning agent in that area so that when the fire get there, there's nothing left to burn?
naruto6302 Yes, exactly. You remove the fuel or burn it to stop the fire's progress. Check out my review of the movie! th-cam.com/video/wmpejh0XFNs/w-d-xo.html
ah i c, ill check out the review too, thanks
So is there a set size for the fire line or is it adjusted accordingly?
Adjust accordingly. This was a quick scratch line to be improved later if needed. Quick outline then get to where the fire is spreading first.
Are you still a firefighter? And do you still do these videos?
I did wildland firefighting from 2007 to 2012.
I have all the respect in the world for these guys, heck I actually want to volunteer, but what exactly is the point of fighting fires in this regard? I am not saying they're wrong, I just don't understand the point. Is it to control the spread rate or to sort of guide it toward an area that is okay to burn? Or is it like a natural reserve like a park?
I can't help but think a few knapsack sprayers would have been quicker knocking down the smaller spotties before they got away.
I have 2 more years until I turn 18 which means I can join a crew ! So excited
Stay in school. Keep your legal record clean. Read "young men and fire," "fire on the mountain," and "the art of war." Stay in good shape. Stay hydrated and be a team player.
One part I don’t understand is that why they are not putting out the fire with water?
You have to have water to use it. Structure firefighters hook to a hydrant. You can use wildland engines and water tenders, but not everyone has one available. Depending on the topography, you may not be able to get an engine to the fire. Looking at this one, you have a dirt road, and could have done a hose lay, but you fight fire with the resources you have not what you wish you had.
I'm a structural firefighter, so we covered a few chapters on wild land firefighting; What I don't understand is why the rural departments out there cant have a tender parked on a distant road for bulk water source, and have 6-wheelers with 70 gallon tanks & a pump going and getting some water on there? I understand not everybody has them, but i look at 10 guys digging at one little spot of fire in the grass, when just a few gallons of water will do? Ive done it before, I understand the fire travels underground same with a marsh, but water still does help.
Jordan Thayer Lots of the time, you are just too far away to have water readily available, or you are first on the scene and are conducting "I.A." or Initial Attack, where you just use what you have til slow tenders etc can get there.
Jordan Thayer
Fire travels underground?
nudist1033 Indeed it does. It travels via tree/plant roots. That's the main reason why it takes weeks to put out marsh fires, because the only way to stop it, is to dig up the ground.
Jordan Thayer
OK, that's my "you learn something new" for today................(8^)
Thanks.
+MyFireVideos plus you really don't want to drag hoses all the up a hill
Those spots really took off fast.
I'm going into training in January, turn 18 in a few weeks wish me luck yall!
Good luck!
@MyFireVideos thank you bro! 🙏
Idk how you guys do it without the scbas and on top of that using hand tools...mad respect
This is an issue that is being ignored by USFS, BLM and other agencies. These firefighter’s health is in danger on the line and even in fire camp.
who are the guys in the khaki jumpsuits? that PPE doesnt look familiar.
They are brown pants with a "white" nomex shirt. Not jumpsuits. Crew Boss and Squad Bosses wear brown pants. Regular ground pounders wear green pants.
You should def put more videos up this is cool
I have like 80 fire fighting videos on this channel but this is the only one people watch. Check out my playlist for more
Just as the crew started going direct on the section that spotted I thought “oh man someone should’ve tied it in with the road, and seconds later you came in and cleaned up the section and anchored in with the road.
Yep. My friend did a good job. He had the go pro on his helmet. I'm sporting a sweet mustache.
I'm really considering going for this. What things should I know/prepare for before hand? How long can a season last for typically? If you don't mind me asking, but how much can one make in a season(roughly)? Good to find more videos that show the perspective of those in it.
You can make from like 9000 in five months to 20000. It depends on a lot. You should practice hiking around with 45 lbs on your back, Also running and light weight lifting would be good. And make sure to eat right. You should be a team player, hard worker, able to get along with others, able to handle downtime, able to follow orders, and you should pay attention to EVERYTHING that is going on around you, aka situational awareness. Also it wouldn't hurt to read "Fire on the Mountain." -Thanks for watching and good luck!
this past year was my first season, TALK TO SOMEONE IN THE FIELD BEFORE YOU MAKE ANY CHOICE TO START. there were a few guys i worked with who hated it. its not fame and glory. its dirty hard work that drains you. you gotta be able to get along with everyone, you dont and things will go to shit fast. think about it long and hard. also if you have the chance go through a fire training program or volunteer at your local station. the extra training will pay off when your in a tight spot and the guys around you start losing it. its definitely rewarding work at the end of the day, but dont get caught up in the fantasy of it all, its not, its hard dirty work. but with the right mindset and group of guys its a lot of fun too
Thanks for watching! I have tons of other Fire Videos on my channel. Feel free to check them out.
Look up s 130 fire fighter training watch videos on deployment of fire shelters and everything you can think of to get ahead
Green in the black?
1. Is it difficult to become a wildland firefighter as in requirements? 2. Is the job only active during fire season? 3. Also do you have to live in a station, or do they just call you when there is a fire? 4. Is cancer a likely link to the job?
1. No. You need a "red card" then usually your department will fill you in on the rest. 2. Normally yes, but there are some agencies that have full time work. 3. I was always just called in to fires, but other agencies may be different, like if the station is really far away from civilization. 4. Yes. But then again, so is being human. (6 Fire Seasons, no regrets).
+MyFireVideos Thanks.
Are you really worried about cancer from wildland firefighting when you walk around in smog three quarters of your life?
+ZIGMAN775 It crosses my mind after having breathed smoke for 6 years. But I don't do it anymore. I have an Aflac cancer plan, however, just in case.
MyFireVideos
That's a good idea
I'm going to pack a shitload of face masks I think, the good ones with the filtration.
What crew are you apart or where apart of if you’re no longer firefighting I get a few wild fires every year where I live my respects are with the brave men and women who go and fight these fires.
did you get called for the waldo canyon fire
what was the LACES looks like there truck are parked in the black.
auto correct L.C.E.S.
Black makes a great safety zone
Ya Black is usually your best safety zone actually. Fire can’t burn if there is no fuel there.
A type 7 engine could have done good work up there but I understand some places you just don't have that available.
Hey what boots do you recommend, naturally screwed leather and a certain height and all that. But is there a particular brand you have had good experience with in your 6 seasons? Next season will be my first one
I used redwing wild land boots for all 6 seasons. They oil them for free and give me new laces in between every fire. Vibram bottom, all leather, up 8 inches with a "loggers heal."
MyFireVideos
Fucking shweet
Thanks man, preciate you
+Guccimane Blazers A lot of guys on my crew had danners and really liked them
Whites
MyFireVideos get yourself some crocs theyre great for fighting fires
This is currently my dream job, I just applied to Cal Fire as a seasonal firefighter hoping to get a call back. Anyone got some good advice that I can take with me on my journey?
Good luck! I have answered similar questions in other comments you may want to check
MyFireVideos ok thank you!
How do I get on?
You need to find various departments and find out when they do their hiring and what they are asking for. Take your red card class so you will be more attractive to a department. Good luck.
I was wondering what boots the guy with the camera has on. I’ve seen them before on some fires when I was on camp crew. Finally met the age requirement and about to start my first season in a couple weeks.
Jonathan iniguez La Sportiva
cooking like the black spruce up here in alaska they sure like that heat.
What camera are you using?
Yes, it is a go pro. I'm not sure which model it is. I'd have to ask my friend what kind he used.
Thanks man
Seems easier to flank the fire and pull the burning material back in to the black but nice work overall
could someone explain to me why he was so far back from his crew what role was he fulfilling doing that
He was being our lookout.
what you guys dont have any water in Nevada just Type 2 IA crews?
Luke O in case you weren't up to speed. That part of the states has been under serious drought conditions for years now. It is a precious comodity that they cant just sling around like pavement queens (no offense to the structure ffs here, i am one myself). Also water isnt always the best tool for the job in these cases.
I drive a S-3 Tender in Idaho, pretty sure I'm aware. I was just talking shit because I've got 1800 gal all the time with my tender
not to mention letting it burn is Nevada BLM standard operating procedure......I've worked with them before I know how they roll
I am red card certified. any positions for an AD?
I would recommend calling and visiting local forest service, blm, and private contractors to see if they are hiring
@@MyFireVideos thank you for your response
Goggins brought me here!
is this a full time job or is it volunteer?
BucketOfCandy 05 Full time from april to october ish. Never do it for free. For some people it is full time all year, fires in the summer, and random projecty stuff in the winter. It depends on where you get hired. Again, don't do this for free.
MyFireVideos ok thanks im in highschool and im trying to get into the explorer program so I can do that until im old enough to get into firefighting or military
This seems like hard work though, I'd rather be spraying a hose
BucketOfCandy 05 you rarely use a hose in wildland fires. not enough water to put out an entire forest, so you dig around it and let it burn out, but put out the spot fires past the fire line. in fact, only engine crews run hose, and that's upon assignment and experience. you can do municipal, but that's months of training rather than a few weeks, and a couple bucks for your red bag.
Ho to build the fightfire line
Wow I didn't know these were that "dynamic". You turn around and 2 seconds later there's a bunch of random spots of fire :O
Yep. That's why you always have to pay attention to what's going on around you. That is also the reason wildland firefighters use look outs.
+MyFireVideos come up to fort mac Alberta they will pay all expenses
Contact alberta gov
+Crazy Funny Cats They can contact. I have been to Alberta before.
when do they start testing for these jobs? I heard they have to hire you by a certain date. What are the physical requirements for hotshot crews?
Fire job applications open January 8 and close on Jan 13.
Also the minimum (some crew ask more) physical requirements for hotshots are.
Required physical test consists of:
The pack test - carrying a 45 pound pack 3 miles in under 45 minutes.
Along with the pack test the applicant is expected to try and meet the goals listed below:
4 -7 pull-ups, depending on body weight
45 sit-ups in under a minute
25 push-ups in under a minute
10 bar dips
1 1/2 mile run under 10 minutes and 35 seconds
After completing the physical training test listed above, all Silver State Hotshots must participate in daily physical activities. These activities consist of stretching for 15 minutes, running 3-10 miles, plus a 1-2 mile hike with an elevation gain of 1000-2000 ft. wearing full line gear, followed by a variety of calisthenics.
very cool, thank you!
witch area of nevada are you fighting this fire in.
near Panaca
Oh I live in Vegas so that's probably why I didn't see this
+ForeverAlexiss Also it wasn't that big
MyFireVideos Yeah true
I like what they are doing fighting wildfires and I want to be one I appreciate for what those wild land firefighters doing to fight fire
You can do it! Find a place to take a red card course and go from there!
@@MyFireVideos ok I’m from Tennessee
R those hotshots or type3
Type II IA(Initial Attack)
Any advice on college course selection that could help you get this job? At what age do most guys start?
I'm in college and there's not a lot you can do unless your school has structural fire fighting courses. I started when I was 19 but there's a lot of people in their early 20s. Now's the time to start looking for a company so that you can take the classes and the pack test.
That’s just impressive
Sweet, I’m working on being a AirTanker Pilot
ThinRedLine good luck!