Deadly Arizona fire claims lives of 19 firefighters

The Granite Mountain Interagency Hotshot Crew is shown in this undated handout photo provided by the City of Prescott in Arizona. The elite team of 19 firemen were killed on Sunday in one of deadliest U.S. firefighting disasters in decades as flames raced through dry brush and grass in central Arizona, destroying scores of homes and forcing the evacuation of two towns.

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The Yarnell Fire northwest of Phoenix, Arizona claimed the lives of 19 firefighters over the weekend.

Sad news out of Arizona today, where the Yarnell Hill fire has claimed the lives of 19 firefighters. The fire broke out northwest of Phoenix on Friday where authorities believe the area was struck by lightning.

It has burned over 6,000 acres, destroyed an estimated 200 structures and it is still zero percent contained.

Keeping Firemen Safe

Sunday the deadliest day for firefighters since 9/11, and the deadliest wildland fire since a 1933 fire in Griffith Park. How can fire prone regions best prepare for wildland fires while also ensuring the safety of firefighters?

For more on the politics behind forest management, we're joined by former wildland firefighter and journalist Michael Kodas.