The Ketchum Fire Department on Saturday, June 20, will host the 17th annual Wildland/Urban Interface Exercise, a fire simulation to train staff and volunteers. The exercise will include all local fire departments, the Idaho Bureau of Land Management and the U.S. Forest Service.
The exercise will begin at 8 a.m. and will last for approximately four hours. The simulated fire will take place in Greenhorn Gulch north of Hailey, spreading into the northern portion of the Golden Eagle subdivision.
To make the exercise as realistic as possible, fire engines and other apparatus, along with fire crews, will be deployed to both subdivisions. Vehicles and personnel will use driveways in those neighborhoods to work on defensive tactics to save homes from advancing flames.
Homeowners who do not want their property involved in the exercise should contact the Ketchum Fire Department at 726-7805. They should place a trashcan at the end of their driveways on the morning of the exercise.
The department is also looking for approximately 12 volunteers to help simulate fire growth and spot fires. Anyone interested can contact Ketchum Assistant Fire Chief Robbie Englehart at 727-5075.
Jon Duval: jduval@mtexpress.com