One of the most important and challenging jobs in wildland firefighting is that of a sawyer, also known as a wildland faller. These trained professionals are responsible for cutting down trees and clearing vegetation to create firebreaks and manage the spread of wildfires. Sawyers need a combination of specialized knowledge, physical strength, and strong mental focus to meet the demands of their job, which is critical in controlling fires and ensuring the safety of firefighting crews on the fireline.
JOB DUTIES
Sawyers must have a deep understanding of tree behavior, wind direction, and wildfire dynamics to safely and effectively bring down trees, often in challenging and unpredictable conditions. When fire behavior changes rapidly, making quick and precise decisions under pressure is crucial, requiring a highly trained professional. Their work is physically demanding, involving long hours in rugged terrain, carrying heavy packs with their essential gear, and operating equipment while surrounded by intense heat and smoke.
TRAINING
Sawyers undergo extensive training in safe and effective chainsaw use in challenging environments. They learn about tree mechanics, cutting techniques, equipment maintenance, and emergency response protocols. Certification levels vary based on experience and skill level, qualifying them to work in different situations and environments.
HELPING KEEP CREWS SAFE
Their primary duties include evaluating the forest or area, identifying hazards, and making critical decisions on which trees to cut. This not only helps mitigate the spread of wildfires but also protects firefighting crews on the line. By creating firebreaks and removing hazardous trees, sawyers play a strategic role in slowing or stopping the fire's spread, enabling crews to contain it more effectively and ensuring safety on the ground.
SAWYER GEAR
National Fire Fighter supplies essential gear to support the critical work in wildland firefighting. From PPE to tools and chainsaw packs, our products are designed to meet the demands of firefighting operations, helping sawyers perform their jobs effectively so they can protect crews and properties.
Gear
Protection on the frontline is essential for every wildland firefighter. With flame-resistant clothing available in various fabric types, wildland firefighters can choose the brush pants and shirts that best suit their needs and duties. For Sawyers, fabrics like Nomex®, Kevlar®, and Tecasafe® Plus offer exceptional cut and tear resistance, ensuring longer-lasting gear that can withstand the demanding conditions of their work.
Shop Gear
PPE
Sawyers often require additional protective gear, such as chainsaw chaps and ear, head, and face protection, to stay safe on the fireline. Having the right equipment that’s both essential and comfortable can make all the difference in the field.
Shop PPE
Chainsaw Accessories
In addition to standard firefighting essentials, sawyers often carry specialized equipment like chainsaws, fuel containers, tools, and extra protective gear, making it crucial to have a pack that can handle it all. From chainsaw PPE to accessories and fuel containers, NFFC has the gear needed to stay prepared on the line.
Shop Chainsaw Accessories
PREPARING FOR WILDFIRE SEASON WITH NFFC
SHOP CLOTHING, PPE, FIRE EQUIPMENT, TOOLS, SKID UNITS, AND MORE HERE!
National Fire Fighter helps provide wildland firefighters with the products they need to protect themselves, their communities, and their property from the devastating effects of fire. NFFC is a trusted source for quality, reliable firefighting gear to help effectively extinguish fires, stay protected, and minimize injury. With innovative designs, and high-quality, durable materials, NFFC wildland fire equipment and products help keep the brave men and women fighting fires safe when things get hot.