× For first time in state history, Washington accepting citizen volunteers to help fight fires

OMAK, Wash. (AP) — For the first time in state history, Washington said Thursday it is accepting help from citizens who have and can operate equipment like backhoes and bulldozers to dig fire lines.

The state Department of Natural Resources says its command posts have been inundated with offers of help.

“If people want to help, we’d like them to contact our coordinators so we can work on getting them safely and appropriately involved,” said state Commissioner of Public Lands Peter Goldmark. “We appreciate all offers of qualified and trained support. Safety for everyone is our highest priority.”

DNR is asking those offers be directed to the temporary coordination centers in Colville and Omak to allow DNR fire officers to remain focused on fighting active fires.

The centers will organize training sessions for those not currently qualified to serve on the fire line.

Beginning 7 a.m. Friday, coordinators will review citizens’ offers for resources and direct them to where they can be most beneficial and without jeopardizing the safety of firefighters and the public.

Deployment to a wildfire will depend on the availability of professional firefighting staff to escort and direct the volunteers.