Michale Smith

Conduct initial and indirect wildland firefighting on Type 1 wildland handcrew Cut direct and indirect fire line using various tools such as shovel, axe, McLeod, Pulaski, chainsaw and back pump Use firing devices, such as drip torches and fusees during firing operations

Type 1 Wildland FireFighter/ Corps member at California Conservation Corps (2023-06 – Present)

• Conduct initial and indirect wildland firefighting on Type 1 wildland handcrew
• Cut direct and indirect fire line using various tools such as shovel, axe, McLeod, Pulaski, chainsaw and back pump
• Use firing devices, such as drip torches and fusees during firing operations
• Mop-up and patrol burned areas after fires to locate and eliminate hot spots that may restart
• Inspect, clean and repair fire hose and equipment, also sharpen fire tools
• Perform arduous and physically demanding work in all weather conditions including extreme heat
• Employ M.I.S.T. (minimal impact suppression tactics) in environmentally sensitive areas
• Conduct suppression repair and rehab tactics
• Practice and utilize the 10 Standard Firefighting Orders
• Assist incidents using the 18 Watch Out Situations
• Cut hand line and clear out defensible space to protect structures during wildfire
• Safely and efficiently cut, remove, and chip vegetative fuel using a wood chipper
• Pile and ignite vegetative material, during grade projects
• Conduct burn operations
• Create fuel breaks throughout the forest
• Maintain equipment and tools daily to maintain peak condition (sharpen, rehandle, ect)
• Safely and efficiently use drip torch, power mower, weed trimmer, chainsaw, brush saw, weed wrench, Pulaski, Hazel hoe, shovel, lopper, hand pruner, bow saw, crosscut saw
• Familiar with seven safety features of chainsaw (Throttle control, On/Off switch, chain break, inertia break, spark arrestor, chain catcher, handguard)
• Conduct building, grounds, and equipment maintenance and repair
• Paint equipment and buildings
• Perform semi-skilled construction work
• Clean and maintain the center facilities by mopping, sweeping, cleaning and taking out trash
• Clear and maintain trails
• Maintain physical fitness by hiking long distances wearing packs weighing 45-100 pounds
• Perform kitchen duties

High School Diploma – Palo Verde High School