The Value of a Dedicated Wildland Fire Training Facility

I just finished conducting a full two day Enhanced S100 for Industry session at the High Country Forest and Fire base and woodlot east of Kelowna. Teaming up with High Country has really increased the quality of the training. We are considering making it the home of the Western Wildfire Training Center.

The value of an established training center is very evident:

1. The number of variables are reduced, or more easily managed, allowing instructors to focus on safely achieving the desired specific learning objectives. Danger trees, other site hazards, conflicts with adjacent residents or land users, protection of values, land and water use permits, site assessments etc. are all easier to manage.
2. Access is easier allowing a wider range of participants to attend even if they aren’t equipped for bush road travel.
3. Having the class room immediately adjacent to the field skills location allow the instructors to vary the schedule based on weather and still be productive. It is very easy to pop into the class to cover a theory section while waiting for conditions to improve. Conversely it is easier to go outside and play with a pump when folks are showing the post lunch nod.
4. Conducting both the theory and field portions of the training in the same location leads to reduced confusion and less lost instruction time. No one got lost coming to Day 2.
5. Supplying, managing and maintaining equipment is easier and results in safer and more consistent training for the students. Unexpected mess ups with classroom audio visual equipment are reduced.

The only negative comment so far is the distance some participants had to travel.

We are still evaluating these initial training sessions at the High Country base and pondering future directions. The content and delivery of the material, and quality of the facility, are generating very favorable reviews from participants. Three veteran forest workers have stated the training is the best they have attended.

Besides the current Enhanced S100 training we are considering other topics with a focus on helping industries and the public meet their wildfire training requirements. Wildfire Control Line Location and Construction Supervision, Wildfire Due Diligence, Danger Tree Assessor Certification and Wildfire Awareness for the Public are courses currently being planned.

We are pretty proud of the product supplied so far and have accomplished this on our own without a single grant or subsidy and very minimal outside assistance.

There is still some space in the upcoming MacLeod Enhanced S100 for Industry April 25 and 27 or we can try to fit you in at your convenience in May and June. Come check us out.

Talk soon.

Doug