East Idaho fire crews ‘prepared’ for season
As wildfires burn throughout the country, the Eastern Idaho Interagency Fire Center says it’s lending hands and equipment where it can. But, officials said they’re also prepared and ready for what’s expected to be an intense fire season here at home.
Sarah Wheeler, an official with the Interagency Fire Center, said there’s a balance between sending help and keeping enough resources close by. She said managers look at things like moisture, anticipated weather patterns, where fires are popping up and whether or not lightning strikes are expected.
Wheeler said of 28 fires so far this year, nearly 80 percent were human-caused.
Laron Johnson has learned much more than engine checks in his 22 years of fighting fires.
“I think you respect fire,” said the junior high school teacher. “You should always have a little bit of butterflies in your stomach.”
But, behind the butterflies is a solid preparation. Most people may not associate pull-ups with battling hot, orange flames, but the two go hand in hand.
“If anything ever happens, we’re in the top shape we ever can be,” said first year firefighter Andy Christenson.
Crews are ready to help other agencies at a moment’s notice. The Fire Center currently has hands and equipment in several states, from Tuesday’s fast-spreading Colorado Springs blaze to Alaska and Arizona.
“So, when I see this Colorado fire burning, I’m thinking Idaho in a couple of weeks,” said Johnson.
Officials are expecting a pretty explosive fire season in Idaho, pointing to the extremely dry conditions. Wheeler said grass, weeds and leaves are four to six weeks ahead of schedule.
“Our firefighters are stationed through all of southeastern Idaho, in areas to strategically place people,” said Wheeler.
All 150 of them are tracked by the Center’s dispatch center, which keeps tabs on everyone with big, visual diagrams. Everyone knows they have a long, hot season ahead.
“Be very careful this summer with fire,” warned Johnson.
With the Fourth of July just around the corner, fire officials warn to be especially careful with fireworks and sparklers.
