Horseshoe 2 Fire – Southeastern Arizona, June 2011

Avra Valley Fire District has a cooperative agreement with Arizona State Land to assist in fighting wildland and brush fires, anywhere in the state of Arizona as well as other states. Arizona State Land will in return, assist the Avra Valley Fire District in fighting any brush fires that may require additional resources. Our district currently employs two engine bosses, which are qualified to respond to wildland fires with an apparatus and a crew.

Wildland firefighting is extremely strenuous, and firefighters can expect to encounter extreme fires, rough terrain, smoke filled air, and long shifts. Because of these conditions, wildland fire fighters must pass a medical physical examination along with the work capacity test, also known as the “Pack Test.” This test consists of a person carrying a 45 pound pack for 3 miles in less than 45 minutes.