Rush Fire Masticator Ignition RLS 2024

A skid steer masticator was conducting hazardous fuels reduction treatment alongside a paved road to prepare the unit for a prescribed fire. During normal masticator operations, the masticator head struck a rock beneath the vegetation resulting in the Rush Fire. While conditions that day were hot, dry and windy, it was not a Red Flag Day. After about 30 minutes of work, the operator turned the machine and saw flames out of the corner of his eye. By the time an engine responded the fire was several acres, growing to over 12,000 acres over the following days. Wichita Mountains National Wildlife Refuge, Heavy Equipment, Extended Attack