Firefighters’ Sacrifices Inspire Wave of Applicants

SEATTLE (AP) — The deaths of three firefighters in the Twisp River Fire last summer are inspiring a wave of job applicants in Washington.

KIRO-FM reports the State Department of Natural Resources isn't seeing people shy away from firefighting jobs after two record-breaking fire seasons.

Washington is preparing for its upcoming summer fire season.

New recruits must be healthy, 18 years old, have a license and high school diploma or GED, and be able to drive a stick shift.

The state trains firefighters in building a fire line, tracking fire behavior and other techniques.

Crews can work up to 16 hours daily, as many as 21 days in a row.