The article details Kelly Ramsey's experience as a member of an elite wildland firefighting unit known as 'hotshots' during California's record-breaking wildfire season in 2020. She and her crew faced dire challenges as they battled the August Complex fire, the largest in California's history, burning through one million acres. The crew’s first task involved torching land to prevent the fire's spread in dangerously dry conditions. Throughout the ordeal, Ramsey's physical and mental resilience was tested, reflecting the demands and risks faced by these brave firefighters.
“We all knew it was coming. Almost every crew in California was getting called to this fire at some point,” said Ramsey.
“So already it's this feeling of like, 'Oh my God,'” Ramsey recalls, reflecting on the sight of the flames.
An accidental fire start could 'add another 50,000 acres' to the inferno, underscoring the risk the crew faced.
Becoming a hotshot means running 1.5 miles in well under 11 minutes and hustling up steep slopes carrying at least 45 pounds.
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