WA State accepting volunteers to fight fires

[Labredog]

Just seen a story on the news, that for the first time ever WA State DNR is accepting volunteers to help battle fires.

[SemperFidelis97]

My wife just came in, and mentioned it as well is anyone thinking about going?  I may be able to get over there for a few days early next week if anyone else wants to go.

[Labredog]

You had to think volunteers were not out of the question when they started sending the military.I am surprised that they don't use more military personnel to fight fires.

[buckandbullminingco]

My wife just came in, and mentioned it as well is anyone thinking about going?  I may be able to get over there for a few days early next week if anyone else wants to go.

We are headed over on the 29th

[dr.derek]

any info? Im 22 in shape and have flexible job to do something to help

[SemperFidelis97]

From what I am reading you have to be a carded operator, or firefighter.  I have operated allot of equipment, but I have no credentials, I think they need to clarify if they just want people who can operate equipment, or are certified to operate equipment.

[Labredog]

http://q13fox.com/2015/08/20/for-first-time-in-state-history-washington-accepting-citizen-volunteers-to-help-fight-fires/ 
There are phone numbers and some contact info for volunteers in the news story.

[Wazukie]

I think the biggest issue isn't getting your red card, it's having enough equipment bosses to go along with the operator.  Easy to get the card but if there isn't any of the "professional " to go along,then they won't put you on the fire.  Same with the line crews, got to have the boss.


Sent from the woods

[Firedogg]

  They are accepting your information on what skills you have and where they can fit you in safely if at all. Maybe some short training and groups put together to watch areas that have already been suppressed and handle hot spots in safe zones.   Personally I think it's just a way for them to publicly appease everyone who is saying " I'll help, put me somewhere", and I'm not usually one to think they have plans like this.

  I am working extra shifts on this side covering for our guys who are deployed over there (nothing nobel, it's overtime).

[Nash]

If work will let me go I'll try to get over there.

[Longbowz]

This idea isn't new.  In the 1960s they could conscript you driving down the road in an area where a fire was.  But in this era of liability suits that won't likely happen anytime soon.

[no.cen.wa]

Thats true, a friend of mine lived in North Bend in the 60's, he said a bus pulled up to the tavern and loaded up everyone and off to the fire they went! He said they paid a wage, and he trashed his clothes, but then again, he was at a tavern first, he probably stumbled and fell. But they used to stop cars and ask too.