Students test their skills during live-fire exercise

The forest became the classroom for dozens of students Thursday. A prescribed burn west of Sisters served as a live-fire exercise for new recruits.

“I’m out here today because it’s always been on my bucket list to become a firefighter,” Amber Blanchard said. “I think it’s cool. It’s kind of like serving your country.”

Blanchard was among 54 new recruits braving the flames Thursday.

“Monday (and) Tuesday of this week was mostly in the classroom,” said Tim Hoiness, training and safety manager for the Central Oregon Fire Management Service.

“Yesterday was a little bit of field work, learning about fire engines, portable pumps, water handling, hose lays and that sort of a thing. Today’s the day they kind of get out and put it all together,”

COFMS is hosting an interagency series of fire classes this week to train new wildland firefighters. Favorable weather conditions meant the recruits got to put their new skills to use.

“This is the first time for these folks swinging a tool and needing to get information passed up and down the line. So it’s a great way to practice those communications,” Hoiness said.

The 28-acre unit was chosen for the burn to reduce fuel accumulations. This is standard practice for firefighters and a chance for students to experience things a classroom can’t offer.

“The smoke was pretty intimidating, just like my eyes started watering and it was hard to breathe,” Blanchard said.

Despite the elements, Hoiness said the live-fire exercise is a favorite among recruits.

“They’re glad to be outside,” he said.”Sitting in a classroom, learning about fighting fire on a screen and listening to people talk is great, and it’s needed. You’ve got to do that part. But actually getting out and being able to practice what they’ve learned this week — that puts smiles on their faces.”

The students will head back to the classroom Friday for a final exam. If they pass, they’ll receive their certification to fight wildfires this season.