The Middle-Atlantic Interstate Forest Fire Protection Compact is authorized by Public Law and is endorsed by the legislative bodies of: Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Virginia and West Virginia. The purpose of the Compact is to promote effective fire prevention and the control of wildfires in the Mid-Atlantic region. Collectively, the states are responsible for protecting more than 35,000,000 acres of woodland. The Compact coordinates the development and integration of forest fire plans, maintenance of adequate fire fighting services by the member states and provides mutual aid in forest fire fighting.
Providing supplies and mutual support are cornerstones of the Compact. Each state has a list of equipment they can share with other member states. When forest fires occur near state borders, the states work together to share resources in extinguishing forest fires. Many compact states have sent crews to the west to assist with wildfires.
The Compact has an active fire prevention committee consisting of a member from each state. The committee has developed fire prevention material shared by all the states. The committee is continuing to develop and produce new fire prevention materials for use by the general public and the wildland firefighter.
Because training is one of the most important objectives of the Compact annual training sessions are held each September. During the last several years, the Compact has sponsored advanced training for the state personnel and volunteer fire departments. The Compact is fortunate to have dedicated and well-trained individuals who serve as training cadres for many of the courses.
Safety for the wildland firefighter is stressed in all training. Each member state has an active and aggressive safety program.
The executive committee of the Compact members consisting of each state forester or their designated representative attend the annual business meeting, each December. Topics covered at the annual meeting include reviewing state accomplishments, planning for the annual training session, and staffing for out of state fire details.
