Today, Explained A firefighter on battling wildfires
Sep 16, 2020
Glen Haydon, a seasoned wildland firefighter with 16 years of experience in California, shares gripping insights into the physical and emotional demands of battling wildfires. He discusses the rising intensity of wildfire seasons and the crucial role of community in prevention. Dr. Beth Jaworski, a social psychologist specializing in trauma, introduces innovative mental health apps aimed at aiding recovery from wildfire-related trauma and stress, particularly during the ongoing challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic.
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Firefighter Overtime
- Glenn Haydon, a US Forest Service wildland firefighter, describes his intense work schedule.
- He's worked 91 overtime hours in a two-week "off" rotation.
Two Stages of Firefighting
- Wildfire fighting involves two stages: initial attack and the long slog of mop-up.
- The less glamorous mop-up, securing control lines, constitutes 90% of the work.
Longer Fire Seasons
- Wildfire seasons are now longer, extending to Thanksgiving and even December.
- This is a significant change from the past when seasons reliably ended by early November.