Safety in the Field: Wildfires and Extreme Heat
Written by Leane Dunn and Chris Huntley
Staying safe in the field is a top priority for Aspen and each season delivers its own set of safety challenges for our field staff. In the summer, these challenges include wildfires and extreme heat. While out in remote locations it’s vital to be fully prepared for any situation that may arise.
Understanding the Risks
Wildfires:
Rapid Spread: Wildfires can spread quickly due to wind, dry conditions, and flammable vegetation. This can create a dynamic and hazardous environment for the unprepared.
Smoke Inhalation: Smoke from wildfires contains harmful particles and gases that can cause respiratory issues and other health problems. Smoke from wildfires can fill valleys and basins and occur many miles from the actual fire.
Limited Visibility: Dense smoke can reduce visibility, making navigation, and evacuation more challenging.
Property Damage and Loss of Life: Wildfires can destroy infrastructure and can be deadly to people that area caught and are unable to escape.
Extreme Heat:
Heat-Related Illnesses: Prolonged exposure to high temperatures can lead to heat exhaustion, heat stroke, dehydration, and other serious health issues.
Physical Strain: Working in extreme heat increases physical strain, fatigue, and the risk of accidents due to dehydration and reduced alertness.
High temperatures can also affect your vehicle and the electronic equipment you take to the field.
Pre-Fieldwork Preparation
Risk Assessment and Planning:
Fire Risk Evaluation: Assess the wildfire risk in the area based on weather conditions, vegetation, and recent fire activity. Consult local fire authorities and fire tracking apps (like Watch Duty) for current fire danger ratings and active fires. Listen to local news reports when planning your work and when driving in to the field.
Heat Index Consideration: Evaluate the expected heat index, which combines temperature and humidity, to understand the potential for heat-related illnesses.
Appropriate Field Gear and Equipment: Determine field gear that is appropriate for the site conditions and pack accordingly. This may include carrying fire safety gear, such as water bladders, fire extinguishers, and shovels; bringing extra food and water for consumption; and wearing breathable long sleeves and pants and sturdy boots, to protect against exposure to the elements.
Be sure to carry extra water and an ice chest. This can also be used to cool down electronic equipment provided you keep the units dry.
Emergency Preparedness: Individuals working in remote locations should always carry a satellite phone, or other communication device which will send out an emergency signal to local authorities. The nearest hospital or emergency center should be determined prior to fieldwork, including appropriate ingress/egress routes.
On-Site Safety Practices
Monitoring Conditions:
Wildfire Alerts: Continuously monitor wildfire alerts and updates from local authorities and fire tracking apps.
Weather Monitoring: Regularly check weather forecasts and heat advisories. Be prepared to adjust fieldwork schedules based on changing conditions.
Hydration and Cooling:
Hydration: Carry ample water and electrolyte-replenishing drinks with you at all times. Encourage field personnel to drink regularly, even if they do not feel thirsty. Additional hydration should be stored in work vehicles for use as needed.
Cooling Breaks: Schedule frequent breaks in shaded or cooler areas to allow field staff to cool down and rest. If a vehicle is available, rest in the vehicle with the air conditioning during breaks.
Safe Fieldwork Practices: Many fires are human caused. It’s important for field staff to be aware of the risks of starting a fire and avoid risky behavior. For instance, vehicles can be a source of fire ignition when driving or parking on tall, dead grass.
Fieldwork amidst wildfires and extreme heat demands vigilant preparation, proactive safety measures, and adaptive responses. By understanding the risks, equipping field staff with the necessary training and appropriate materials and implementing safety procedures, we can navigate these challenging conditions safely. Prioritizing safety not only protects the well-being of personnel but also ensures the success and integrity of Aspen’s field projects.