I agree. Even in the article, they mention that this was the first time in state history that their rangers have depolyed them. I would also hate for someone to feel falsely confident in going out in dangerous conditions (e.g. a hot, windy day with bone dry vegetation) because they're carrying one.

Then again, even if it's a one in a million thing, it sucks when you're that "one" and you wish you had a fire shelter.

I do remember a story not long ago of a wildland firefighter who was badly burned when he (actually, maybe it was a she) tried to cram herself and two hikers into a one-person shelter when they were overrun by fire.