Modern fire management is a highly technical and professional operation requiring skilled and knowledgeable employees. All fire training instructed and/or received by the fire program for prescribed and wildland fire will meet or exceed standards set by the National Wildland Fire Coordinating Group (NWCG.)

Refresher Training

Wildland fire safety training is our most important opportunity to ensure safe operations on the fireline. This annual training provides fireline personnel with opportunities to refresh their skills in applying the risk management process, and rules of engagement to recognize and mitigate hazards in their work environment. The refresher is held at Balcones in April of each year. The refresher training provides firefighters updated information on current issues for implementation in the upcoming fire season and reviews fire shelter considerations and facilitates "hands on" fire shelter inspections and shelter deployment practice.

Annual Balcones Basic Wildland Fire Training Curriculm

This course has proven to be an exceptional training environment for personnel engaged in wildland fire. This course meets the requirements for Red Card certification. Class room exercises provide students with knowledge of fire behavior, and field work provides firefighters with hands on training. There are no tuition fees and the next course is planned for March 2010.

Red Card

Any person wishing to become red carded or maintain red card status should contact the Fire Management Program. There are opportunities to assist the fire program in suppression and prescribed burning throughout the year. Assignments can last from one day to three weeks for out of state assists.

Contact the Fire Management Program for upcoming training or to schedule training in your area.