What does it take to jump out of an airplane into a remote wildfire? In this episode, we sit down with U.S. Forest Service Smokejumper Base Manager Mitch Hokanson to discuss the highly trained firefighters who parachute into some of the toughest terrain imaginable, often reaching fires before they become major incidents.

We learn about the intense training required to earn the title, and why having a smokejumper base in Redding is so important for protecting the North State and communities across the West. Along the way, we hear incredible stories from the field, surprising facts about the job, and what happens from the moment a fire is reported to the moment firefighters hit the ground.

If you’ve ever wondered what smokejumpers actually do—or why Redding plays such a critical role in wildfire response—this is an episode you won’t want to miss.

Contact the City of Redding Podcast Team

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