In this episode, host Christian Lane speaks with Captain Willow Bloomquist of the Dashwood Volunteer Fire Department. Willow shares her journey from various jobs to becoming a firefighter, her experiences in wildfire prevention, and the importance of community engagement. The conversation delves into the challenges and responsibilities of volunteer firefighting, including training, liability, and the dynamics of leading a volunteer team. Willow emphasizes the significance of building strong relationships within the community and the fire department, especially during critical incidents like the Wesley Ridge fire.

Chapters
00:00
Introduction to Willow Bloomquist and Dashwood Fire Department

08:28
Willow's Journey to Firefighting

13:28
Understanding Danger in Firefighting

15:15
Reading Smoke: A Critical Skill

19:50
Incident Command Decision Making

23:24
Liability in Volunteer Fire Departments

29:33
Attracting and Retaining Volunteer Firefighters

43:53
Wesley Ridge Fire Experience

54:31
Community Engagement and Support 

To learn more or connect with the Dashwood Volunteer Fire Department visit https://dashwoodvfd.com/ or contact Capt. Bloomquist directly at w.bloomquist@dashwoodvfd.com. 

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