Lots of batteries. Steve Jenkins, unit leader at the National Incident Radio Support Cache, says that during the height of the 1996 wildfires 330,000 batteries were used each day. This year he estimates 400,000 batteries are being used each day in all applications from pagers and radio communication to flashlights and headlamps. All battery sizes are being used, including AAA, AA, C, D, and the larger six and 12-volt batteries. The used batteries are recycled.
Every year retirees from the wildland firefighting community return to support fires.
But this year, with resources stretched thin, their contributions are needed more than ever. I am very appreciative of those retirees who are already helping us in this emergency situation, but we need more help and are looking to you, with your longevity of Forest Service experience, to assist us in any way that you can in this emergency. This year, the Forest Service has received special waivers from the Office of Personnel Management allowing retirees to be hired temporarily as reemployed annuitants without a reduction in their annuities, or the triggering of payback requirements for employees who retired under the March 1995 buyout. Interested retirees with current fire credentials should contact their local Forest Service office. Qualifications are met, complete necessary paperwork and forward the retiree's information to the appropriate office.