BOISE, Idaho — This year the Gem state coined the term "fire year", meaning the duration of wildfires in a year have increased putting the state at risk of wildfire all year. Blake Abbott, Captain 8 from Boise National Forest Service says, "we’re actually noticing wildland fire seasons being longer in duration starting as early as April and you know ending as late as January the following year".
To decrease the devastating impact wildfires have, the Boise National Forest Service created a curriculum for future firefighters with the intent of having more active duty career firefighters. The program includes mentoring, classroom teaching and hands-on training.
By the end of the training, recruits will be equipped with the knowledge and experience needed to apply for fire-related jobs with federal, state or local fire management organizations.
Tonight on 6 On Your Side, Frankie Katafias will have more on the wildland academy, wildfire predictions and an apprentice/ recruit who have gone through/ are going through training.
