topic Re: Base Camp for Firefighters in Community Chat

Base Camp for Firefighters

On It — Wed, 29 May 2024 11:44:37 GMT

These photos show the base camp being assembled for 500+ firefighters. They will have a self-sufficient community to meet the needs of those working to contain our forest fire here in Southern New Mexico. There appears to be a team managing the operations. We have been told they will be here for weeks. The fire is 0% containment.

This is a dining area where meals will be prepared and served.

Handwashing facilities:

This is the check-in station for arriving firefighters.

Re: Base Camp for Firefighters

cheriere — Wed, 29 May 2024 13:14:03 GMT

@On It

Wow! The news of these fires is really scary. I'll pray you, all the residents and firefighters stay safe and sound.❤️❤️❤️

Re: Base Camp for Firefighters

Carolina925 — Wed, 29 May 2024 13:26:47 GMT

I have the utmost respect for these first responders. It takes a certain kind to put themselves in the line of danger for the rest of us. We have firefighters go across country all the time to help; I don't know firsthand, but can't help to think they all jump at the chance. Thank you for this post.

Re: Base Camp for Firefighters

SilleeMee — Wed, 29 May 2024 14:37:50 GMT

Nearly all of NM is in a state of continued drought, some places more severe than others, but it's the whole state that's vulnerable and very dry. I'm in Colorado and we've just barely come out of a drought status but there are still a few areas in the southern area of the state which are still very dry. We are constantly under fire danger everywhere no matter what but not as bad as NM has it.

Re: Base Camp for Firefighters

Still Raining — Wed, 29 May 2024 15:21:25 GMT

This is awful for this early in the season. Stay safe.

This I don't know, but can they accept volunteers? For things like serving out the food?

Re: Base Camp for Firefighters

On It — Wed, 29 May 2024 16:20:50 GMT

@Still Raining I do not know if they accept volunteers. I will take note and reply if I find an answer. They seem to have a group that takes care of the firefighters. I even saw a search and rescue dog (a gorgeous German Shepherd) going through the check-in process. Access seems to be controlled.

The evacuation centers in Capitan rely heavily on volunteers. Caring for displaced large animals as well as people requires a lot of hands.

Re: Base Camp for Firefighters

On It — Wed, 29 May 2024 15:47:19 GMT

The number of personnel has increased to 643. The camp is continuing to grow. The high school which is not shown in the photos is accommodating the operations headquarters.

Re: Base Camp for Firefighters

Kachina624 — Wed, 29 May 2024 15:52:31 GMT

@On It. If your pictures were taken yesterday or today, I must say your air looks crystal clear compared to what we're experiencing today in the Albuquerque area. I can only see an outline of the Sandia Mountains because of the bad smoke. Air is terrible.

Re: Base Camp for Firefighters

JudyL — Wed, 29 May 2024 16:50:55 GMT

I live in California and know only to well the devastation these fires can have. Prayers are going out to all in NM. Don't know if other states have sent firefighters to assist but hope they do soon.

Re: Base Camp for Firefighters

nwbabs — Wed, 29 May 2024 16:57:01 GMT

Oh My Goodness! Bless them All!

We had an encampment of Firefighters last summer right in our small community for an out of control fire along Lake Whatcom in treacherous terrain here in Washington State. They were here for weeks and we were all so grateful.

Thank you for posting as it makes me even more grateful for the blessed rain that has been falling slow but steady this year. My heart goes out to all in harms way.

Re: Base Camp for Firefighters

SaveTheTurtles — Wed, 29 May 2024 18:32:37 GMT

Bless these brave men and women. I hope they get a handle on the fires.