Fire and ice

Master Sgt. James Betts, Civil Engineer Squadron fire prevention assistant chief, adds wood infected with bark beetles to a controlled burn Feb. 8, 2021, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. To ensure the wood was burned in a safe and timely manner the wood was skillfully stacked allowing the fire to burn hotter and faster. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Willis)

Master Sgt. James Betts, 22nd Civil Engineer Squadron fire prevention assistant chief, ignites a controlled fire to burn trees infected with bark beetles Feb. 8, 2021, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. Bark beetles can kill trees in as little as two weeks, and controlled burns are utilized to protect the integrity and health of the rest of installations trees. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Willis)

Master Sgt. James Betts, 22nd Civil Engineer Squadron chief fire prevention assistant chief, stokes a fire burning away infected trees Feb. 8, 2021, at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. The cool temperatures and low wind speed prevented another fire from starting, allowing the safe and controlled burning of the trees. (U.S. Air Force Photo by Airman 1st Class Zachary Willis)