Hotshot crews train at Spooner Summit ahead of fire season

Hotshot crews trained at Spooner Summit on June 4 to prepare for the fire season. - The Tallac Hotshots and partner agencies simulated wildfire response, testing tactics, medical emergency response, and communication.

- Captain Elsa Gaule emphasized the goal of a safe season, starting with 21 people and ending with 21. - Deputy Fire Chief John Chester noted that most fires in the Lake Tahoe Basin are human-caused and urged public awareness.

- The training included 80 hours of exercises over one to two weeks, assessing response times and fireground operations. Officials stress that public awareness and responsible recreation are key to preventing wildfires.