Fort Simpson (July 02/04) - The forest fire index has already reached high to extreme in much of the Deh Cho and there could be a long summer of firefighting ahead.

Miranda Isaiah learns how to handle a hose during emergency firefighter training at the gravel pits outside of Fort Simpson. - Derek Neary/NNSL photo

Fifteen people were trained over the weekend to combat fires as part of local crews, if needed.

The emergency firefighter training consisted of classroom lessons and hands-on practice at the gravel pits. On Saturday afternoon, the participants donned their yellow coveralls and hard hats despite the sweltering 32C temperature and scorching sunshine.

"Getting hot yet?" Nogha fire crew member Conrad Cazon asked.

"Very," was the immediate response from trainee Seka Champagne.

Despite the gruelling conditions, the trainees learned how to operate water pumps, use hoses and then properly roll them up.

"We look for hard workers, (being) on time and a person that will ask a lot of questions -- that makes a good firefighter," said instructor Dave Gargan, senior crew supervisor for Nogha's fire suppression unit.

Back-up status

The 15 who were certified will be placed on back-up status to work with one of the four Nogha crews.

Several others failed to show up for the full three days of paid training and were disqualified. Miranda Isaiah was one of those who made it through. "The hard work is worth it, I'd say," said Isaiah.

Fellow trainees Seka Champagne and Tumbah Antoine said the prospect of gaining experience and being called upon to fight fires in the south is enticing.

Instructor Daniel Allaire, forest officer for the Department of Resources, Wildlife and Economic Development, noted that other lessons pertained to basic fire behaviour and suppression, how to use the equipment, helicopter orientation and crew structure and roles.

"They've got to learn to work as a team," Allaire said. "Safety is the priority on the fire line."