Fatal Mountain Community Fire in Wyoming Prompts Staffing Discussion

A fatal fire in the mountain community of Story, Wyo., has raised questions about whether there are enough firefighters there.

Firefighters found the body of 68-year-old Robert Wing on April 28 inside his home. Authorities believe he died of smoke inhalation.

The Sheridan Press reports that the chief of the Story Volunteer Fire and Rescue Department says eight of its nine firefighters responded and brought the fire under control within about 15 minutes. However, chief Mike Onstott said he asked for help searching the home from the Sheridan Fire-Rescue department once its firefighters arrived.

He says the volunteer department needs help in cases like that since searching buildings is so labor intensive and firefighters must take frequent breaks. He says he wishes he had 15 or more volunteer firefighters.