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There is a structure protection group assigned to the Middle Fork Complex who's incident command post is in Garden Valley, Idaho on the Boise National Forest. 17 engines and water tenders are tasked with locating, accessing and prepping around structures and identifying mitigation needs for homes in the wildland urban interface throughout the fire. Specifically, these firefighters are responsible for preparing and protecting structures threatened by wildfire. 

As more and more people move into and near wildland areas, the risk of wildland fire increases. That area where homes meet the wildlands is called the wildland urban interface or WUI. Fires can start on either private land and move onto forested lands or move from the forested areas to homes. This bi-directional movement creates complexities and difficulties for firefighters. Wildland firefighters are trained to fight wildland fires. Their focus is on protecting the natural resources. They do not carry the appropriate equipment nor are they trained to fight structural fires. Structural firefighters are not trained to fight wildfires nor are they equipped with the specialized equipment wildland firefighters use. Structural firefighters focus on the immediate structure burning. When homes ignite in the WUI, attentions are diverted from the wildlands to saving structures and lives. The role of Federal agencies in the wildland/urban interface includes wildland fire fighting, hazard fuels reduction, cooperative prevention and education and technical assistance. Structural fire protection in the wildland/urban interface is the responsibility of Tribal, State and local governments.

On the Middle Fork Complex, firefighters are meeting with homeowners in their neighborhoods and talking about defensible space and steps they can take before a wildfire approaches an area. Additionally, the structure protection group has placed "pumpkins" or large water storage tanks, and installed pumps and hoses in strategic points around the communities. 

There are some things you, as a homeowner, can do to learn to live safely in the fire environment. Although these recommendations are no guarantee from the threat of wildfire, you may make your home and property less susceptible to damage and loss and live more safely. Listed below are some simple precautions.

To Create a Defensible Space:

• Keep annual dry grass and brush removed from a radius of at least 100 feet around structures. Remove dead and dying vegetation.
• Move woodpiles away to a cleared area 30 feet from structures.
• Clear down to dirt 10 feet around propane tanks.
• Remove combustible materials from under decks, stairs and eaves.
• Clear debris (pine needles, leaves) from roof tops and gutters. Clear overhanging limbs 10' from the roof and chimney.
• Provide clear access to your home and make sure your home is clearly marked so that fire service agencies can respond quickly.
• Trim trees from the ground up 6' - 10' and space trees 10' apart.