April 2026

Tools of the Trade: CAL FIRE Foresters’ Essential Gear

Get an inside look at the essential tools CAL FIRE foresters rely on every day. This three‑part video series walks viewers through some of the gear, technology, and techniques used in the field to support California’s forests and the communities that depend on them. CAL FIRE Foresters are incredibly versatile and can be responsible for everything from reviewing Timber Harvest Plans to inventorying state forests and planning prescribed burns.

CAL FIRE Uses Aerial Ignition to Complete Whittle Prescribed Burn in Tuolumne County

CAL FIRE’s Tuolumne‑Calaveras Unit recently completed the Whittle Prescribed Burn Project near the Fowler Peak lookout tower, using a Helitorch carried by a UH‑1H Super Huey helicopter to safely ignite targeted areas and improve access in steep terrain. This carefully planned project reduces hazardous fuel buildup, limits invasive species, improves wildlife habitat, and strengthens community protection by lowering the risk of severe wildfires, demonstrating how CAL FIRE uses “good fire” to safeguard people, property, and natural resources for the future.

What is Home Hardening?

Home hardening helps protect your house from wildfire by strengthening vulnerable areas like roofs, vents, siding, and windows. Most homes ignite from wind-driven embers—not direct flames—making these upgrades critical. Combined with defensible space, home hardening significantly increases a home’s chance of survival, protects entire neighborhoods, and gives firefighters a better opportunity to safely defend communities during fast-moving wildfires.

How CAL FIRE Helps You Prepare: Defensible Space Inspections

Defensible Space Inspections are a free, educational service from CAL FIRE that helps residents reduce wildfire risk by evaluating the first 100 feet around their home for hazards such as dry vegetation, overgrown brush, and debris near structures. During the visit, inspectors offer clear, practical guidance on how to meet state defensible space requirements and make homes more fire‑resilient. These inspections are not enforcement-focused—they’re designed to support homeowners with actionable steps that strengthen community safety and improve wildfire preparedness.

Join Us; We're Hiring Defensible Space Inspectors

CAL FIRE is seeking qualified candidates for seasonal Defensible Space Inspector positions. Inspectors conduct property evaluations, provide fire‑prevention guidance to residents, and support statewide wildfire‑mitigation efforts. This role is ideal for individuals who are professional, detail‑oriented, and committed to community safety.

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