UNITY, ME — March 30th — As part of their winter preparedness efforts, the Unity Fire Department held wildland fire training that included a controlled burn. Crews received training on brush fire techniques, such as preventing exposures, setting up fire lines, and deploying hose lines. Before Maine's spring fire season, controlled fires are a frequent way for firefighters to monitor fire behavior and practice containment techniques under supervision.

A young participant witnessed operations alongside firemen during a brief, supervised community contact as part of the training. For rural agencies, where brush fires can spread quickly and necessitate coordinated action, wildland training is still crucial. For the forthcoming season, the session promotes preparedness and reaffirms safe operating procedures.