Students taught life-saving lessons in wildfire situations

Fire instructors are teaching skills that could mean the difference between life and death in a wildland fire.

The Colorado Fire and Incident Management Academy continued Sunday.

Patrice Lehermeier joined the academy to learn how to be a firefighter.

“I have a sense of adventure. My stepdad was a firefighter, so I kind of feel like it’s in my blood,” she said.

Lehermeier also said firefighters from the Black Forest and Waldo Canyon fires encouraged her to be a firefighter.

She and other students are taking part in the field day portion of the academy.

They were taught how to break lines and how to deploy a shelter just in case they are trapped in a wildfire.

“We are teaching the firefighters here how to stay alive in a wildland fire. Things to recognize. Situations that are hazardous to them and others. How to be efficient and safe and work with others,” lead instructor Rich Palestro said.

As for Lehermeier, she said the lessons she learned are valuable, but she hopes to use them only in emergencies.

The academy runs until Friday.