The Wenatchee World
WINTHROP — Ten years ago today, four young firefighters died breathing super-heated air inside their emergency shelters north of Winthrop, moments after watching the approaching fire from afar, taking pictures and talking about music.
Other changes since Thirtymile
These are other changes the Forest Service has implemented since four people died in the Thirtymile Fire on July 10, 2001.
o Safety culture. The agency hired consultants and began specific leadership training for fire bosses at every level, including evaluations by their peers in simulated fire events, said Ken Snell, Forest Service fire director for the Pacific Northwest Region.
o New pocket guide. The Forest Service worked with Occupational Safety and Hazard Administration to develop 38 specific safety areas to improve, and developed a pocket guide with requirements for administrators.