Our Viewpoint

This wildfire season has no signs of slowing down anytime soon. We've heard of a lot of people wanting to help the firefighters who are here with the U.S. Forest Service working on the Thorne Creek fire, which is part of the West Lolo Complex.

We love that everyone is coming together and wants to help. When a wildfire occurs, as we've seen, there is a whole camp of resources set up. This year it is in Plains. They bring in food tents and showers and medical and sleeping tents. It's basically a portable neighborhood. This preparation comes with years of experience.

What we also need to remember is the efforts of our local fire departments, ambulance services an other first responders, most of which are volunteers. While the federal firefighters are working on the blaze that everyone can see, there is a lot going on behind the scenes with our local volunteers. They are on standby to help protect homes and other structures. They are planning preventive measures in the case that the fires get closer to our towns or private property.

While we want to show our appreciation for those firefighters who travel from other areas to help get the fires out, it's important to support our local volunteers. They would certainly appreciate some baked goods, donations and signs thanking them for the additional responsibility they are taking on during this time.

Thank you to all our first responders. We appreicate you!