Unfortunately, in California, wildfires aren’t uncommon. Every year, there are massive wildfires throughout the state that destroy homes and ecosystems. Because of this, it is important that we do what we can to prevent wildfires, especially during dry seasons.
Check out the resources below to learn more!
Slideshow
Interview with a Firefighter
by Ellie S.
Q. How many wildfires do you see per month ?
A. The honest answer is zero most months, but I probably see about two or three brush fires a year.
Q. What’s your favorite thing about being a firefighter?
A. My favorite thing about being a firefighter is making someone’s bad day a little better by showing them compassion and kindness and providing exceptional service. We are called on people’s worst days.
Q. Did you want to be a firefighter as a kid?
A. Yes, I have wanted to be a firefighter since middle school when the firefighters came to visit my school. Once I saw that fire truck I was hooked.
Q. How many people does it take to put out a small wildfire?
A. Depending on the size of the small wildfire, I would estimate anywhere from 6-15 firefighters to put out a small wildfire.
Q. How many are at your station?
A. At my station there are five firefighters. Three on the engine and two on the ambulance.
Q. How long have you been a firefighter?
A. I have been a firefighter for 25 years. That makes me feel old when I say that number.
Q. Have you seen many animal habitats destroyed by wildfires?
A. I have seen many habitats destroyed by wildfires. But fires are a natural occurrence and soil benefits from them, which helps new growth and hopefully builds new habitats for animals.
Q. What’s the hardest part of your job?
A. The hardest part of my job is the time spent away from my family. Sometimes birthdays and holidays are missed.
Q. How often do you fight fires?
A. At my department in Carlsbad, California, we don’t get many fires. I only get a couple big fires a year.
Q. Have you or your crew ever had to save an animal from a wildfire?
A. I personally have never rescued an animal from a wildfire nor have I seen one rescued, but I know it happens.