Emergency Rescue Service

Father and Son Wildland Firefighter Team

Nov 05, 2009

by Mark Hayden, N7YLA

According to Wikipedia, wildland firefighting refers to the firefighting tactics used to suppress wildfires. Firefighting efforts in wildland areas requires different techniques, equipment, and training from the more familiar structure fire fighting found in populated areas. Working in conjunction with specially designed firefighting aircraft, these wildfire-trained crews suppress flames, construct firelines, and extinguish flames and areas of heat to protect resources and natural wilderness. Wildfire suppression also addresses the issues of the wildland-urban interface, where populated areas border with wildland areas.
Scott Armstrong, the Director of the Monrovia, California-based Emergency Rescue Service (ERS) says that there are four ERS members who have received special training to assist in large wildland fire suppression. In addition they are trained in evacuation methods and structure protection. Scott and his son Karson are members of this exclusive subgroup of ERS members. A photo journal of them in action is posted under ?“Our PDFs?”
Those wishing to learn more about becoming a Wildland Firefighter can contact one of the following Training facilities:

Don Biedebach Training Center (DBTC)
Little Tujunga Ranger Station (ANF)
12371 N. Little Tujunga Canyon Road
San Fernando, CA 91342
(818) 899-4516 FAX (818) 896-6227
Email: dbtc@fs.fed.us
Jim Hall, Facility Coordinator

Danny Rhynes Training Center (DRTC)
Del Rosa Work Center
602 S. Tippecanoe Ave.
San Bernardino, CA 92408
(909) 382-2984
email: kmjohnson@fs.fed.us
Kristel Johnson, Facility Coordinator