Is wildland firefighting more dangerous than structure?

Is wildland firefighting more dangerous than structure?

Firefighting is dangerous no matter what route you choose, their approach is different along with their strategies. While structure firefighting is year-round, wildland firefighters are temporary, seasonal positions working four to six months out of the year.

Do structural firefighters fight wildfires?

Every year, hundreds of structural firefighters transition to wildland firefighting when the situation warrants. These firefighters take the federally mandated S-130-190 class and assess their stamina with a 50-pound pack and an altitude-adjusted hiking test.

What is the most common cause of death by wildland firefighters?

The four major causes of death—heart attacks (41 fatalities, 24 percent), vehicle accidents (34 fatalities, 20 percent), aircraft accidents (31 fatalities, 18 percent), and entrapments (28 fatalities, 17 percent)—were responsible for 79 percent of the total number of fatalities.

How dangerous is wildland firefighting?

Some of the main health and safety risks associated with smoke and chemical inhalation while firefighting includes permanent lung damage, chronic bronchitis, abnormal lung function, lung cancer, and other respiratory illnesses.

Why wildland firefighters are getting killed while fighting wildland forest fires?

The top four categories which accounted for 88 percent of the deaths were, in decreasing order, medical issues (usually heart related), aircraft accidents, vehicle accidents, and being entrapped by the fire. Ventana Hotshots holding a line on the Monument Fire in Northern California, August, 2021. USFS photo.

Is wildland firefighting bad for lungs?

Wildland firefighters were estimated to be at increased risk of lung cancer (8 to 43 percent) and cardiovascular disease (16 to 30 percent) mortality across all season lengths and career durations. These findings suggest that wildland firefighters should reduce exposure to smoke in any way possible.

Why do wildland firefighters not wear masks?

High carbon monoxide levels: Using a wildland firefighter face mask during the mop-up stage can be hazardous because carbon monoxide levels can be higher during that phase of a fire.

How hard is forest firefighting?

Fighting forest fires is a demanding but rewarding experience. Only people who believe in teamwork, safety and a dedication for fitness will be considered for positions. Because employees’ safety is the utmost concern, intense training programs must be successfully completed prior to applicants’ being hired.

What are the dangers of being a wildland fire fighter?

Wildland fire fighters are also exposed to a variety of hazards that may put them at risk of both fatal and non-fatal injuries while on the job. Hazards wildland fire fighters may encounter include: Slips, trips and falls Burns, including sun-burns Scrapes and cuts from tools and equipment, such as chain-saws

What safety programs should be established for wildland fire fighters?

Safety programs should be established that include employee training on safe work practices, recognition and reporting of hazards, appropriate personal protective equipment and frequent safety program evaluation. Hazards that wildland fire fighters may encounter include:

Why are wildland fires increasing in the United States?

Wildland fires continue to increase in the Western United States as hot, dry and windy conditions persist, resulting in an extended fire season and factors conducive to fires.

Is there smoke where wildland firefighters work?

In spite of numerous studies confirming that yes, there is smoke where wildland firefighters work, there has been little in the literature that quantifies the effects on a person’s health. A new study published in August, 2017 contains a preliminary analysis addressing that question.