Yesterday I spent nearly 10 hours on Fire Ground, a Hazzard Reduction Burn. I was tasked with our CAT1 Tanker, refilling the smaller vehicles(Cat 7 & 9's), along with patrolling the roads to prevent any spot fires.
Members of our brigade have been planning this event for two years.
Last Sunday I attended as 85 ha were burnt to start this action of protecting these properties & assets, yesterday nearly 50 acres. Weather dependant next weekend another parcel of land will be burnt.
We had a wind change that was unexpected which cause some concern to one farm house & multiple machinery sheds, having some 15 appliances attending, this was brought under control rather quickly to the properties owners relief.
In the last two outings, I have been fortunate to be teamed with members who have been RFS Members for many years, who can read the situation and have taught me a great deal.
I've completed my RFDO, so I am able to drive the CAT1, Operate the pump. The CAT1 has a water canon on the front of it, this enables us to attack a fire without getting out of the vehicle and entering a smokey environment.
Just about to head out again and mop up.
You don't use magic to disappear, ya use a 4x4 & Swag.