ELKO - Reviewers from the Bureau of Land Management's interagency fire and aviation review team found the Elko District fire program prepared for the 2013 season following a recently completed a Statewide Fire and Aviation Preparedness Review.
The review began June 21 with an inbrief from the interagency staff consisting of 23 members representing all facets of fire management. The members inspected staff and equipment at the Elko District, Wells and Carlin stations.
Over the two-day evaluation, inspectors reviewed the fire management officer, agency administrators, dispatch, safety, training, incident business practices, warehouse procedures, aviation, individual firefighter performance, engines, handcrews and dozers.
The review team commended the Elko District on many aspects of its fire program notably the Incident Business program for its organization and accuracy of the integration of BLM and sponsorship of BIA resources.
The Carlin Station was also recognized for being exceptionally organized, well maintained and for the professionalism and high morale displayed by the fire operations supervisor, Tyler Hecht, and his staff during the review process.
The team found all engine crews were very proficient in their cohesion and teamwork and were safety oriented. Overhead leadership was found to be outstanding and according to the report, "it is apparent all captains strive to train and lead their crews at all times to a high standard."
There were recommendations for updating administrative procedures and ensuring equipment is properly maintained, such as hard hats, fire shelters and radios.
"We are very pleased with the outcome of review," said Mike Ford, interagency fire management officer. "However, I had no doubt our team would be found prepared. We have a lot of experience, some great mentors for our junior firefighters and have had a chance to practice our cohesiveness and effectiveness with our early season fires."
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