Wednesday, July 22

U.S. Fire Administration Firefighter Fatality Notification - Alturas, CA

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The United States Fire Administration (USFA) has received notice of the following firefighter fatality:

Name: Thomas Marovich

Rank: Firefighter

Age: 20

Gender: Male

Status: Wildland Full-Time

Years of Service: 2

Date of Incident: 07/21/2009

Time of Incident: 1010hrs

Date of Death: 07/21/2009

Fire Department: USDA Forest Service - Modoc National Forest 

Address: 800 West 12th Street, Alturas, CA 96101

Fire Department Chief: Forest Supervisor Stanley G. Sylva

Incident Description: Firefighter Marovich incurred fatal injuries when falling while performing routine rappel proficiency skill training, at the Backbone Helibase in Willow Creek. He was working with the Chester Helitack Crew from the Lassen National Forest that had been assigned to the Backbone Fire in the Trinity Alps Wilderness.

Firefighter Marovich was provided advance life support treatment immediately at the scene. The Base medical staff, the Humboldt County Coroner’s Office, and the Humboldt County Sheriff’s Office were involved in the response.

The Forest Service has mobilized an accident investigation team and is working with the National Transportation Safety Board.

Incident Location: Willow Creek

Funeral Arrangements: Pending

Memorial Fund Contact and Address: Pending

Tribute is being paid to Firefighter Thomas Marovich at http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/fireservice/fatalities/

To date, 59 firefighter fatalities have been reported to USFA in 2009; 57 from incidents that occurred in 2009 and two from previous year incidents.  Year-to-date monthly and annual USFA firefighter fatality reports are posted online @ http://www.usfa.dhs.gov/fireservice/fatalities/statistics/ff_stats.shtm


The United States Fire Administration recommends everyone should have a comprehensive fire protection plan that includes smoke alarms, residential sprinklers, and practicing a home fire escape plan.

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U.S. Fire Administration · U.S. Department of Homeland Security · Emmitsburg, MD 21727 · (301) 447-1000