Clear Creek Rx Drip Torch Leg Burn 2021

This incident occurred on the Beaverhead-Deerlodge National Forest on the Madison Ranger District in Montana. During ignition operations on the Clear Creek Rx, a drip torch collar “popped” off after pressurization, spilling drip torch fuel down an employee’s lower legs as the individual was crossing over a small 3-inch line of active fire—which caused the fuel to ignite. The resulting fire involved potential 2nd and 3rd degree burns to the employee’s lower legs. Prompt action by surrounding individuals, including pouring water on and smothering the flames, suppressed the fire. The employee was treated on-scene by a qualified EMT. Both air and ground ambulances were ordered. The employee was transported via air ambulance to a burn center.

[This data was initially provided by the USFS Weekly Summary Report.]

RLS, Prescribed Fire, Medical Emergency, Medevac, Burn Injury