After three wildland fires charred nearly 500 acres in Tulare County, firefighters are battling another enemy -- fatigue.
CAL FIRE crews were called to a fire last week that tore through 339 acres in less than a day. A week later they were battling a blaze that claimed 135 acres near Hot Springs.
Firefighters, working in 24-hour shifts, hike steep terrain while carrying heavy gear under the Valley sun. Once the day is over, sleep is their top priority.
"We have a job to get done," CAL Fire Capt. Nick Perricelli said. "At the same time, we have to keep our people healthy."