McCall Smokejumper Training

Smokejumper trainees must demonstrate a high level of proficiency in the various aspects of parachute jumping and other smokejumper-related tasks which are taught during an intensive training period. These tasks include:

1. Aircraft exiting procedures

2. Parachute malfunction and emergency procedures

3. Parachute maneuvering

4. Timber letdown procedures

5. Parachute and cargo retrieval

6. Tree climbing

7. Fire line operations and management

At least 25 training jumps are conducted during the training period, beginning with jumps into the simplest terrain and progressing into more difficult terrain. Performance is continually evaluated during the training period and those persons unable to perform up to the standard of proficiency required will be terminated from the program and placed in another job, if available. These performance-based skills are essential for safely continuing in the program. Upon successful completion of training the recruits will be placed on the jump list and made available for fire assignments.