GLEN HELEN - Fighting wildfires in San Bernardino County is no longer, entirely a man’s job.

The first County Female Inmate Hand Crew, also known as Glen Helen Crew 15-9, has passed the required training. The women have learned wildland fire suppression techniques, first-aid, CPR, confined space awareness, chainsaw operations, and small engine and facility repair.

“The hand crew’s main objective is to assist with local fuels reduction programs and chipping operations; assisting other county departments in meeting their mission in a cost effective manner, saving the county an estimated one-million dollars per year. The crew also responds to fire suppression incidents, as well as other types of emergency operations such as sandbagging,” said Deputy Fire Chief Jim Johnstone.

The program teaches the crew member skills that they can use to gain future employment.

Story Date: November 27, 2015