Idaho Dozer Operator Dies Helping at Wildfire

A dozer operator died Monday afternoon while helping at a wildfire in Idaho.

Dennis Long, of Clarkston, died from an apparent heart attack or other natural cause while operating the dozer at the Pardee Fire, according to KMVT.com.

The dozer boss performed CPR on Long before Life Flight and emergency medical services arrived on scene, where Long was pronounced dead, the station reported.

Officials with the Idaho Department of Lands Maggie Creek Forest Protective District offered counseling to fellow wildland firefighters. 

The Pardee fire -- sparked by lightning Monday morning -- has grown to approximately 55 acres but started to lay down after an active night shift on the fire.

It is not threatening any houses, IDL officials told reporter