When should equipment testing be conducted to ensure readiness?

Conducting equipment testing before each fire season is essential to ensure that all gear and tools are functioning properly and are reliable when needed. This proactive approach allows teams to identify and address any maintenance issues, defects, or malfunctions in advance, which is crucial for safety and operational effectiveness during active fire response situations. By testing equipment ahead of the fire season, teams can ensure that all items—such as hoses, pumps, gear, and communication devices—are in optimal working condition, ready to perform effectively when called upon.

Testing at the end of the fire season or during the winter may not provide timely solutions to problems that could be discovered during preparation for the next season. Waiting until new equipment is acquired does not address ongoing maintenance needs across all equipment. The focus on readiness before each season is a best practice, ensuring the reliability and safety of the firefighting resources available in critical times.