Inspection Detail

Inspection: 1491128.015 - Kl Farms/Fire Llc

Inspection Information - Office: Redding District Office

Investigation Summary

At 2:20 p.m. on August 31, 2020, Employee # 1 was fighting an active forest fire. Three engine crews were advancing down a forest service road and trying to slow the progress of the fire that was below them. The crew was engaged in fire suppression activities when a wind change re-directed the fire uphill engulfing their location in burning trees and vegetation. In an attempt to escape the blaze, Employee # 1 and one other coworker started backing uphill to a turnaround spot approximately a quarter of a mile up the narrow forest service road. Between the smoke and flames, Employee # 1, who was the driver, lost track of the road. The truck she was driving slid approximately 25 feet down a steep grade. The truck came to rest broadside against a burning tree surrounded by burning brush. The vehicle became engulfed in flames; the coworker barely escaped. Employee # 1 died due to incineration in the active wildfire.

Keywords: Burn, Fire, Fire Brigade, Fire Brigade/Department, Fire Truck, Truck Driver