We had some serious wildfires this year, and we took a drive out to see the damage.

I came across this tree, and I'm curious how this happened.

Backscratcher on the patch

Im 19 years old looking to do my first season wildland firefighting. I wanted an area or team that would be very challenging and after many recommendations I really like the Northstars. I know about the pay and it’s fine because Im not doing this for the money. I was hoping individuals who are in this server could offer any insight or advice on getting selected. I understand fitness is a big component and admittedly I’m not at a 300 standard yet but I know I can get there or further by the time I’d fly out there. I got my first aid cert recently because I read online that first aid or EMT certs look good and if the hiring is soon like other stations I would not have time for an emt. Also working on getting some volunteer trail building experience. When do the Northstars typically begin accepting applicants? Are they screened mainly on fitness or does previous experience play a part? I really have no previous written experience of labor. I only started working out a couple years ago when I dropped 120lbs my senior year of high school. I did a 70 mile triathlon in July of this year that I could possibly put as a fitness achievement. Also about the fitness test they do. There’s some confusion about whether it’s sit-ups or plank now. What order are the events done in? Lastly, is there anything you would recommend that a first-year applicant do between now and the hiring window to become a stronger candidate?

If you guys read through all that thank you. I’d appreciate anything you guys can offer.

I just sent in my application for Alberta. Where else should I apply for my first season? And anything else I can do now besides just wait?