Fall Season? What can we expect?

[911wacker]

Brian,

Due to the large amounts of rain and also large amounts of undergrowth this year. Can we expect to see a high fire load on the forest floor this coming fall and spring? And what should be done in preperation aside from the normal?

[SIERRA 14]

Well that's a pretty tough question Scott. It all depends on Mother Nature. There will definitely be a higher fuel load on the forest floor. This is a result of all the rainfall we have had this year and last year as well. Along with the fact that we really haven't had much of a fire season for a couple of years. That fuel will just continue to build up.

One highly potential problem with fall fires is that a fire can re-burn very easily. This is due to the fact there may be some hotspots remaining and then the leaves fall on top of them. Consequently now there is unburned fuel on the ground again.

Preparations that can be done. Basically the normal stuff. Check the following:

• Backpack tank is full of water, wiped pump off and lightly lubricate it, fill with water and lastly TRY IT
• Check to see that all hand tools are sharp and that the handles are in good shape
• Have a small bag with personal gear handy.

If you have difficulties repairing any equipment give me a call. One thing to remember is to drain the water out of the backpack tank and pump in cold weather. Replacement costs are upwards of $200.00 per backpack tank.

I will continue to post the Forest Fire Danger on the news ticker and relay it to 911.

Here's a link to the Eastern Area Coordination Center. They provide a tremendous amount of information.
www.fs.fed.us/eacc/