Camp hand crews from various Sierra Conservation Center (SCC) camps took part in reality-based training alongside the Los Angeles County Fire Department (LACFD).
The training for hand crews was held at the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department (LASD) property in Santa Clarita. Law enforcement, public safety and first responders run simulated training exercises in controlled environments, ensuring safety.
Fire up close and personal
“It was amazing to witness the communication between company officers and camp crew supervisors. They operated apparatus and handheld radios while using the Incident Response Pocket Guide. The information was relayed to incarcerated fire crews, ultimately strengthening initial attack efforts,” said SCC Lt. R.S. Jauregui. “They were fighting real fires, using their training and experience to determine fire behavior and engagement tactical operations. I’ve never been that close to a live fire on purpose.”
The southern region camps participating in the drills included:
- Acton (CC #11)
- Holton (CC #16)
- Julius Klein (CC #19)
- Francisquito (CC #4/CC #14)
- as well as California Institution for Women’s Malibu Conservation Camp (CC #13)
Note: Francisquito Camp is unique as it is the only camp with two identifying numbers, 4 and 14. Malibu Conservation Camp (CC# 13), a female fire camp, previously operated as a CDCR male fire camp in partnership with LACFD. However, was established as a female fire camp in 1986, overseen by the California Institution for Woman (CIW).
