In a community hall buzzing with anticipation, Bonner County residents gathered to learn vital fire defense strategies from the Bonner County Civil Defense Resilience Team. The meeting, held on June 28, 2025, focused on equipping locals with the knowledge and tools necessary to combat the ever-present threat of wildfires.

The session highlighted the effectiveness of Class A foam, a firefighting agent that significantly enhances water's ability to extinguish flames. With trained hands, this foam can double or even triple the effectiveness of water, making it a crucial resource for homeowners, especially those with shake shingle roofs that are particularly vulnerable to embers. Attendees learned how to integrate this foam with standard garden hoses, allowing them to stretch their water supply further during emergencies.

Demonstrations showcased various foam applicators, emphasizing their capacity to deliver substantial amounts of water efficiently. For instance, a simple garden hose attachment can utilize just three gallons per minute, while larger systems can flow up to 60 gallons, effectively covering more ground in fire-prone areas. However, participants were cautioned about the current shortage of these essential tools, as demand has surged across the U.S.

The discussion also delved into the importance of having the right fire extinguishers on hand. While dry chemical extinguishers are common, they are often limited in their effectiveness against certain types of fires. Foam extinguishers, on the other hand, create a protective barrier that can prevent re-ignition, making them a preferred choice for many situations.

As the meeting progressed, attendees were reminded of the critical steps to take in the event of a fire: rescue, alarm, evacuate, contain, and extinguish. The emphasis was clear: safety comes first. Participants were encouraged to ensure everyone is out of harm's way before attempting to fight a fire, as smoke inhalation poses a greater risk than flames themselves.

The evening concluded with a sense of empowerment among the attendees, who left equipped with practical knowledge and a renewed commitment to fire safety. As Bonner County faces the ongoing threat of wildfires, the resilience team’s training serves as a vital resource, fostering a community prepared to protect itself and its homes.