California Interagency Hotshots

Emblem depicting the state of California and the shields of the NPS, BLM and USFS

Duty+Respect+Integrity

Hotshots are elite firefighters trained to fight wildland fires and respond to other emergencies nationwide. The purpose of this website is to collect, preserve and share the rich history and tradition of the California Interagency Hotshot Crews.

This site was originally created and developed by the California Interagency Hotshot Crew Superintendents through the California Interagency Hotshot Crew Steering Committee, which was established in 1976 at the first California Hotshot Superintendents Workshop. The committee was formed to ensure that safety, training, and technical information was shared within the Hotshot community. The committee also provides the California IHC community with a united voice.

Our Mission Statement

Committed to providing a valuable public service through a long-standing tradition of professionalism, leadership and integrity.

Core Values

Integrity:

The cornerstone of the hotshot community.

Duty:

Leadership
Responsibility
Accountability
Physical Toughness
Mental Toughness

Respect:

Tradition
Pride
Professionalism
Teamwork
Inclusion

Becoming a Hotshot

Learn about the life as a hotshot firefighter.

Don't let our history disappear

We are always looking for updated and additional information in regards to any of the crews listed, particularly the disbanded crews. We welcome any input you may have, no matter how small it may seem and we encourage you to write to us via email.

Interregional Fire Suppression Crew History (1974)

1957 Fire Task Force Report to the Chief

"Hot Shot" Crews by Stanley Stevenson

Adapting Advanced Principles of Organization and Fireline Construction to CCC Suppression Crews

Oregon's Red Hats by George Schroeder

The 40 Man Crew

Southern California Firestorm 2003 - Lessons Learned

Interested becoming a Hotshot, a Smokejumper or one of the many other types of wildland firefighter? Visit our Regional Fire Hire website.

Did you know, that a number of California Interagency Hotshot Crews (IHCs) have their own websites? You will find links to their sites below:

California Hotshot History