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Forest Service official says firefighter safety continues to be top priority

Hundreds of firefighters making progress on the wildfire outside the mountain town of Yarnell, Arizona came off the line to share a moment of silence and watch a procession of the towed vehicles of the 19 elite Hotshot crew members killed over the weekend.
       Firefighters in Arizona and across the country paused throughout the day to remember the Granite Mountain Hotshots and recognize the dangers firefighters face everyday.
     In tonight's feature interview Edward O'Brien talks with U-S Forest Service assistant director of fire operations, Steve Gage. Gage and his team essentially determine which fires pose the biggest risk to life and property and distribute resources accordingly.
      Gage says firefighting safety has come a long way over the years.

Edward O’Brien first landed at Montana Public Radio three decades ago as a news intern while attending the UM School of Journalism. He covers a wide range of stories from around the state.
edward.obrien@umt.edu.  
(406) 243-4065
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