Oklahoma Forestry Partners with Law Enforcement on Fire Response

Oklahoma Forestry Services’ Engages Law Enforcement in Fire Response 

OKLAHOMA CITY, Okla – Law enforcement officers frequently respond or are first on scene at wildland fires across Oklahoma. To better arm them with knowledge and tactics for fires that are increasing in size, frequency and intensity, Oklahoma Forestry Services (OFS) is partnering with the International Association of Fire Chiefs’ (IAFC) Ready, Set Go! Program.  

“Collaboration between first response disciplines is vital to the successful outcome of every event and wildfires are no exception,” said Mark Goeller, State Forester and Director of Oklahoma Forestry Services. “This initiative will enhance law enforcement officers’ safety and understanding of their critical role during wildland fire events, which is shaping up to be active this winter.” 

The seasonal outlook for Oklahoma’s dormant season, typically winter and early spring when fire activity is greatest. La Nina conditions are expected to dominate through winter which points to warmer and drier than normal conditions.  Fire activity is expected to increase on both frequency and severity as we progress through winter into spring with current predictive signals indicating that March and early April will be very active months for wildfire activity. 

The RSG! for Law Enforcement video and flyer provide general knowledge to help law enforcement officials, who are often first to arrive. These resources will help responders assess the scene and take appropriate action for each situation they may face, resulting in preservation of life and property. The information and guidance in these resources is intended to be shared during law enforcement shift changes and training – the flyer should be kept in patrol cars for reference. 

The International Association of Fire Chiefs’ (IAFC) Ready, Set Go! Program has partnered with the National Sheriffs’ Association (NSA) and the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) to further the safety and knowledge of law enforcement with this program.  

About Oklahoma Forestry Services 

Oklahoma Forestry Services, a division of the Oklahoma Department of Agriculture, Food and Forestry, is committed to conserving, enhancing and protecting Oklahoma’s 12.5 million acres of forests and woodlands. Since 1925 Oklahoma Forestry Services has worked with individuals and communities throughout the state to create resilient landscapes, fire-adaptive communities and provide wildfire response.  Headquartered in Oklahoma City, the division also has regional offices in Goldsby, Broken Bow, Wilburton and Tahlequah.  For more information, visit http://www.forestry.ok.gov.  

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