Deadman Flat No 1298 1979

On July 31, 1979, on the Deadman Flat Fire No. 1298 burning on the Bureau of Land Management's Boise District in Idaho, two ground tankers were working in tandem, taking flanking action on the fire's southeast sector. Around 1830 hours, the wind shifted 90 degrees causing the fire to run directly at the lead tanker. In response, the lead tanker's driver proceeded to backup and had traveled approximately 128 feet when the engine died and the fire completely engulfed the truck. The driver had some difficulty releasing his seat belt and was burned when flames came through the window. He exited the right side of the tanker and ran 50-60 feet to safety where the crew was waiting. The crew administered first aid and requested the fire helicopter for evacuation. Within 8-10 minutes after the accident, the patient was enroute to St. Alphonsus Hospital in Boise . Не received second and third degree burns on his face, hands, and elbow. He remained hospitalized for five days. The truck was a total loss. 

Burn Injury, Initial Attack, Engines, Entrapment