First time in state history: Volunteers asked to join firefight Aug 20, 2015

http://www.komonews.com/news/local/First-time-in-state-history-Volunteers-asked-to-join-firefight-322466591.html


OLYMPIA, Wash. -- With firestorms raging through the eastern half of Washington, State Department of Natural Resources is for the first time in state history setting up support centers for those who want to volunteer to join the firefight...

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"If people want to help, we'd like them to contact our coordinators so we can work on getting them safely and appropriately involved," said Commissioner of Public Lands Peter Goldmark. "We appreciate all offers of qualified and trained support. Safety for everyone is our highest priority."

Officials are asking volunteers to head to the temporary coordination centers in Colville and Omak to allow DNR fire officers to remain focused on fighting active fires. The centers will organize training sessions for those not currently qualified to serve on the fire line.

Offers to volunteer will be formally accepted starting at 7 a.m. Friday, and coordinators will review volunteers' offers for resources and direct them to where they can be most beneficial and without jeopardizing the safety of firefighters and the public, officials said.