“Inside the World of Hotshot Firefighters: Battling Blazes in California and Beyond”

Good morning. It’s Monday, Aug. 19. Here’s what you need to know to start your day.

You’re reading the Essential California newsletter
Our reporters guide you through our biggest news, features, and recommendations every morning

Hotshot crews are keeping busy in this early and active fire season
When a wildfire grows dangerously large, the U.S. Forest Service’s hotshot crews step in. With hand tools, chain saws, and sometimes dozers, the elite firefighters clear brush, dig out lines, and set strategic burns to deprive advancing flames of fuel. After a couple of mild fire seasons, hotshot teams across California and other Western states are keeping busy this summer.

Dan Mallia, superintendent of the Redding Hotshots, shared insights into their recent assignment in Oregon to aid with the Willamette Complex fires. Mallia highlighted the challenges they face and the importance of their work in containing wildfires. The Redding Hotshots have worked on some of the biggest and deadliest blazes in state history, including the August Complex, Dixie, North Complex fires, and the recent Park fire.

Mallia emphasized the importance of safety and well-being for his crew, acknowledging the self-reflection that comes with battling devastating wildfires. He also discussed the early start to this year’s fire season and the physical and mental toll it takes on hotshot crews.

The increasing severity of wildfires in the West is a concern for wildland firefighters like Mallia. He mentioned the role of global warming and decades of firefighting policies that have contributed to the destructive nature of modern wildfires. Mallia expressed support for prescribed fire practices and Indigenous fire management techniques as ways to balance forest ecosystems and mitigate fire risks.

Today’s top stories
– California culture
– 2024 election
– Law enforcement and policing
– Government and policing
– More big stories

Today’s great reads
Julie Chavez Rodriguez, granddaughter of Cesar Chavez, is running Kamala Harris’ campaign. Can she win over Latino voters for Harris?

For your downtime
– Going out
– Staying in

And finally… a great photo
Enrique Lima of Calimesa shared a photo of Victoria Beach’s Pirate Tower in Laguna Beach, a beloved landmark for his family.

Have a great day from the Essential California team:
– Ryan Fonseca, reporter
– Amy Hubbard, deputy editor, Fast Break

Check our top stories, topics, and the latest articles on latimes.com.