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HELICOPTERS PHOTO DESCRIPTION PAGEHelicoptersCherry: Dipping the bucket in the North Fork of the Feather River on the Plumas NF around 1988. Photos by Abercrombie. Ortega 1-7: The Ortega fire on the San Bernardino, most likely 1989. My engine was on crash-rescue at the time. Memorable event was that the helicopters were dipping out of an open cesspool pond and dropping on firefighters near the fireline. The jig was up when a hotshot foreman whom I have known for a long time and enjoy immensely spotted a couple of pieces of corn on his shoulders. Photos by Abercrombie. Walker 1-2: I was performing as a CWN Helicopter Manager on the Walker Fire. The fire was had a couple of days burning periods. I then flew with one of the ships to the Devil Fire. Photos by Abercrombie. Devil 1-7: The Devil fire on State land in Northern California. The helibase was just a couple miles beyond the town of Big Bend, Northeast of Redding. I arrived on one of the Columbia Vertols as a helicopter manager and ended up as deck coordinator for the duration. There were myself, a helibase manager, and (after I whined about two people running an 8 ship base for 3 days) a takeoff and landing controller trying to run a base with up to 14 ships. We were moving several hundred folks morning and night with the two Guard ships. My first experience with the big people movers, I was very impressed. . . and also blown over a few times by the rotor wash. Most big time Western contractors were there including Columbia, Erickson, Ca National Guard, PJ's, Rogers, and a few others I hadn't heard of prior or since. Don't you love the cute little Cayman in pics 2 & 3? I don't remember the specifics, but I remember it had a hell of a lift capacity, far beyond what it looks like it could lift. It had just been rebuilt by an outfit from Texas. I didn't get to fly in it, but did get a nice inside & out tour. Photos by Abercrombie. Quincy: A California Highway Patrol Airstar helicopter sitting on the pad at the Plumas National Forest heliport. Photos by Abercrombie. Layman: A flareup interrupts a game of cards at a helibase somewhere in the West. Photos by Abercrombie. Sierra 1: Fond memories of working with the California Air National Guard. This was on the Sierra National Forest around 1990. I finally got a ride on a "Huey". These were a top notch, fine bunch of pilots and ground crew out of Fresno, I enjoyed working with them greatly. The ugly (though still impressive) skycrane was from the Nevada Division of Forestry who showed up on the fire uninvited and began free-lancing. We grounded 'em. Photos by Abercrombie. Helicopters 2Sierra 2-4: Fond memories of working with the California Air National Guard. This was on the Sierra National Forest around 1990. I finally got a ride on a "Huey". These were a top notch, fine bunch of pilots and ground crew out of Fresno, I enjoyed working with them greatly. The ugly (though still impressive) skycrane was from the Nevada Division of Forestry who showed up on the fire uninvited and began free-lancing. We grounded 'em. Photos by Abercrombie. Thunder 3-4: The Thunder fire on the San Bernadino National Forest circa 1983? First a Bell 212 on a pad, then a Bell 204 awaiting troops. My first helicopter ride on a "guppie", yes, it was still piston driven. I didn't really enjoy this flight as much as others, but it beat walking into what I think was called "Fish Camp Flat". (Course we did have to walk out.) Photos by Abercrombie. Tahoe 1-2: One of my first assignments as a helicopter manager on the Tahoe National Forest. I selected a LZ on a mountain top to pickup some handcrews, but before we could lift off, we were fogged in. The crews all walked off the fire and we were left to haul out their garbage when the fog lifted a few hours later. That would be Abercrombie in pic #2. Photos by Abercrombie. Bambi 1 & 2: From SEI Industries, makers of the Bambi Bucket. Guest 14a-14e: From Erickson Air-Crane Company. Courtesy of D. Hubbard, Media Services, some of his favorites. Ab likes 'em too! G15A: Ash Kicker engine crew at the North Fork helo Base. All the smoke is the Corral Fire as it joined the Blackwell Fire. Photo by Ash Kickers. Dan Anderson (in 2002) adds: This occurred on or about September 27, 1994. I was involved with various aspects of the fire as an employee of the McCall District. The Blackwell and Chicken Complex fires burned predominately on the McCall District while the Corral Fire started on the neighboring New Meadows District before it joined the Blackwell Fire just north of the town of McCall. G15B: Looks like I lost the info on this one. Please resend. I figure Ash Kickers. G15K: Columbia Coming into bucket the line for Ash Kickers at the Sheep Complex. G15L: Carson and Ash Kickers Inc. At the Laid Low Complex. Helicopters 3G15M: Ericson Doing a bit of Bucket work for Ash Kickers at the Salt Creek Complex. G17: Have lost information, apologies. Please resend. Lama: A Lama taken on the Crystal Creek Fire in Colorado in 1980. Photo credit to Tim Foley. Apache 1-4: hope you enjoy these...these pictures are from the Western Army National Guard Avaition Training site. Taken by Marcia Elliott. Franklin 1-3: Skycranes from the Franklin Fire helibase on the Mendocino NF. First week in April, 2000. Courtesy of Mellie. Wdrop: Robinson Fire, Plumas NF, first week in April, 2000. Courtesy of Martin. Skycrane: Taken at Hetch Hetchy Reservoir on the Ackerson Complex in California 96. Courtesy of Hickman. Torch, Torch 2, & Snaghell: RX burn operation on the Colville Indian Rez, northeastern Washington State. Courtesy of Mark. Kirk Complex: An Evergreen S-64 SkyCrane helicopter returning from a drop on the Kirk Complex Sept. 1999. Courtesy of Paul. Alpha Golf, November Golf 1 & 2, Helo 453cc: Four helos on the Thompson Flat Complex MT, 2000. The Helos are Alpha Golf and November Golf 1 and 2 (Type 1 Canadian aircraft) dropping retardant around a large spot fire outside the control line in top of the ridge in Division O. Also a picture of 453CC (Type 2 helo) dropping retardant on a large spot fire in Division O. Credit to Hunter '45. Helicopters 4Kern Co. Helo 1 & 2: Kern Co. Fire Department Helicopter Program. Photos taken summer, 2000 during the dedication ceremony of their helicopter program. Credit to Hunter '45. Incoming and Mix Site: Photos from the Granville Lake fire in north-central Manitoba, Canada end of May in 1995. (See also Fire 4 page for more photos.) I took the pictures from the mixing site where we were conducting a burnout operation with the helitorch. The fire was on a large peninsula on Granville Lake. There was a narrow spot where the fire could have jumped to the mainland to threaten the community of Leaf Rapids. The decision was made to conduct a burnout to bring the fire to the water before it could jump on its own. The "Mix site" and "Incoming" photos are taken from the mixing site. "Incoming" shows the ignition helicopter coming in with the helitorch for another drum of fuel. "Mix site" shows the ignition helicopter ready to take off with the helitorch. (The narrow spot I mentioned can be seen in the background). The final fire size was about 18,300 hectares (about 45,000 acres). The burnout only accounted for fraction of it. Credit to Chris Kuzenko. Kneeland CDF 1 & 2: Kneeland CDF, 7 engines and two inmate handcrews were instrumental in putting out a small fire that grew from a burning pile of timber slash into a small forest fire in the redwoods, the so-called "asbestos forest" on the edge of Humboldt Bay at Bayside (10/25/00). Strong erratic winds that ushered in a thunderstorm initially caused concern about containing the fire. The CDF helo dipped its bambi bucket into a pond that is a slough of the bay. Courtesy of Mellie. FL Cobra: Florida Division of Forestry "Cobra" Firefighting Helicopter. Compliments of CPW. Cobra at work 1 & 2: Florida Division of Forestry helicopter at work, Spring, '01. Photo taken by Josh O'Connor. To see more of his photos, click here. Jones Fire: Here is a photo for you rotorheads taken on the Jones Incident, 5/01. From Stu. Waterdrop 1-3: Helicopter 7PA Papillon Helicopers. Rod the pilot, bucket drop(s), Simpkin Springs fire Dixie National Forest, Sept 2000. Photos taken by Earl L., UT Fireguy. Ping Pong & Ping Pong Burn: Photos taken by JB. Cherokee Heli: Helo or the Cherokee NF. Photo taken by JB. FL Helitack Heaven: Helitack Heaven in Florida (FL fires,'01). Photo taken by Jim. Heaven Flood 1 & 2: Same place, same trailer as heliheaven. I was there 1999 and 2000 when it was known as Lake City air tanker base (FL). Originally, the air tanker base was put in the lowest part of the airport and when there was a heavy downpour, all the water from the tarmac drained there. The next year the tanker base was relocated to a higher spot and the helibase was moved to where it flooded. The air tanker base manager got a big grin when I mentioned the flood from last year and putting the helibase there. I found a whole lot of humor in it also and could not resist sharing this when Jim called it Helitack Heaven. Didge ya'all happens to get yo feet wet Jim? Photos sent in by COMT. Ventura Heli: Here's one is of the Ventura County Sheriff's Dept. copter 7 making a water pick-up during a brush fire in Newberry Park, California in December 1997. Photo taken by JU. Helicopters 5S&R Crash 1-5: These are pictures from a recent (summer '01) helicopter crash that occurred in California. It was a Navy Rescue helo out of Nevada. The accident occurred at a little over 10,000 ft elev. 6 people were on board, and believe it or not only minor injuries were sustained. The accident occurred during a search and rescue mission and is under investigation at this point so no speculations from me. There were some interesting stories that came from it tho. Photos taken by Tone1. Spain: I just got this photo from a friend who is flying fires in Spain. Photo sent in by Jim. Historical 1 & 2: Historical photos used in training, no other info. If anyone knows more about this series of photos including date, ship, location, photographer, please let us know. Thanks, Ab. Johnson Creek Fire: Helo working the fire during the wind-driven fire event on 08/11/01. Photo taken by a member of Stutler's PNW Team 3. Bullseye!: Leeman Dip Site on the Johnson Creek Fire (Lakeview Complex), 08/11/01. Boeing Vertal filling bucket for water drop. Photo by Randy Herrin, Situation Leader on Stutler's PNW Team 3. Puma Flag: Here's one. It kind of fits with the current times (after 9/11/01). It was great to see and got a lot of comments from the folks on the line. Scroll down for the full effect. Sent in by SH. Dangerous Hookup: Here's one for you. Unhooking the bucket on an IA fire near Canmore, AB. (AB = Alberta Canada) Photo by Scott. Grand Canyon Crew: This is a picture of the Grand Canyon Helicopter Training Academy (Sept. 2001) Helicopter Specialist Mike Minton, Pilot Eddie Thoroughgood and crew. Submitted by Frosty. Hoosier H310: H310 is on the Hoosier NF for a 45 day exclusive use then on to the Huron-Manistee NF for 45 days then to the Sawtooth NF for the summer!!! Photo sent in by CAP. Skycrane: This skycrane was working St. Mary's Mission fire, part of Virginia Lake Complex near Omak Washington. Dated +/- 8/15/01. Ship was working hot spots for SCIA-1 crew nine. Crew Boss Dennis Trentham. Photo by Jess Neville. Sent in by adftr with Jess' permission. Case Helispot: The Case Mountain Fire picture is from 1987. Photo taken by Sting. Crane Dip: The Crane picture is from the Outlet Fire, Grand Canyon NP, 2000. Photo taken by Sting. Arroyo Grande 527: Type I helicopter on the Mammoth-Mclaughlin Fire. Photo sent in by NoFX. AG Helishot Crew: The 2001 crew, 527, Arroyo Grande, Los Padres National Forest. Photo sent in by NoFX. Arroyo Grande Rappel: Crew and helicopter 527 Arroyo Grande, Los Padres National Forest. Photo sent in by NoFX. Helicopters 6Rappers: You're missing the best thing about helicopters on your web page, the rappers! Here you go.... Bell 212 Era Helicopters. Photo courtesy of Adam Kahler. On the Skids: Here is a picture of two Krassel Heli-Rappellers please add it to your airborne firefighter page. Photo courtesy of JF. Hover Exit & Hover Entry: Here's a couple shots from a hover entry/exit practice. They are from an Alberta Helitack Support Crew - HS 1. Photos taken by Scott. Ab Note: that these photos prompted quite a discussion on lack of helo safety from those reading theysaid. Helos in a Row: Heres a few helicopters. Photo provided by DH- Rotormouse. Ya'll think these are fire helos? Ab. Rotor: Off the 'Halfway Ariel" fire. Photo taken by J. Foster, Highland 26. Palmer: This was taken at the Palmer Lake Fire in NE WA. Photo taken by J. Foster, Highland 26. Sage/Aliso Rx: A pic from the Sage/Aliso Rx burn from the Los Padres NF. This was last Monday (03/04/02). Sting 660 Alouette: From Yellowstone, Summer, 2001. Sent in by Hickman. Helo in Spain, Discharge Helo, Kamov in Spain, & Discharge Kamov: My name is Carlos Gomez and I´m a forestfire fighter. Here you are some photographs of forestfire in Spain. Enjoy it. = Juan Carlos Gómez Vidal. 746 & Water Fill: Sikorsky helicopter 746 and Ventura County fire dept. water filling operation- Camarillo. Photos contributed by No FX. 742 Waterdrop: Helo 742 dropping a load. Photo taken by NoFX. AG Crew: Arroyo Grande Crew going to the Shields Fire, 2001. Photo contributed by No FX. Dust Abatement: Arroyo Grande Crew, dust abatement, 2001. Photo contributed by No FX. Kelly Helispot: Arroyo Grande helo at the Kelly Fire helispot, 2001. Photo contributed by No FX. Ventura: Ventura Co. Fire Deptartment Copter 7, Telegraph Fire, Fillmore. Photo contributed by No FX. Helicopters 7Helo 507: Helicopter 507, Pompoose Fire, Shasta Trinity NF. Photo contributed by NoFX.Copter 7: Copter 7, Ventura county fire training, Fillmore Photo contributed by NoFX. Copter 7 Training: Copter 7 Training, Fillmore. Photo compliments of NoFX. Elvis in LA: Elvis- skycrane- contracted by LA City. Photo compliments of NoFX. Military on the Darby: Darby fire - military support. Photo contributed by NoFX. Directing the Drop: Buffalo Fire, 2000 season. Photo sent in by FPD. Drop: Bullseye. Buffalo Fire, 2000 season. Photo sent in by FPD. Helo Landing: Photo sent in by FPD. Alouette: From the Winters Flat fire GJD BLM in May 2000. Photo complements of CS. Arizona: Arizona helo -- hey I want to share this pic of the Oversite Fire in March 1, 2002 to March 12, 2002 in the Huachuca Mountains. Sierra Vista AZ. Photo contributed by Serge. Brainard Helis: S-58 (?) Brainard Helis getting ready for a pick. Taken on a fire in the glades sometime around '87 or '88 . Photo compliments of WEB. Hover Hook: Hover hook by N.Carolina Forestry. The guy in the open door was the signalman and talked to the pilot. Taken on a fire in the glades sometime around '87 or '88. Photo compliments of WEB. 206 B3: Crescent Airways 206 B3 on floats. Taken in Minnesota where the Superior N.F. had a 100 day exclusive use contract from around '81-93. That ship also was contracted to Everglades N.P. for the winter season. Photo compliments of WEB. Houeston: Houeston Helis 212 in conference. Taken on a fire in the glades sometime around '87 or '88 . Photo compliments of WEB. Helitorch: Torchin' on the Colville Rez Spring '02. Photo taken by Charles. Rotor Wash: Look at the down wash of that one. Photo compliments of Pierre Hamel from Quebec. Two Krasselians: Another picture of two Krassel Heli-Rappellers, compliments of Shawn Brockie. CDF Dipping, More Dipping, Most Dipping: Photos from The Meat's collection. Oh what a varried life you've led? So what are the details of your time with CDF and where is this??? Ab. Helicopters 8Alma Helitack: The CDF Alma Helitack 106 carries about 7 firefighters for the hard to reach fires in rugged terrain and for search and rescue. It also has a 200 gallon bucket that is called into action as soon as the firefighters are delivered to the fire. The water drops support the firefighters in cooling down the flanks of the fireline so we can get a line around it. Photo taken by The Meat.Dipping & Heli Dipping: Photos taken by The Meat. Awaiting details. Sikorsky: This skycrane can suck up to 1500 gallons into its tanks in about 15 sec. It can carry retardant also but 90% of the time they carry water.
The ship requires 2 people to fly. It's the largest water dropping helo in the
world. You guessed it, taken by The Meat! Crash: This photo dates from 1976, when I was a member of the now-defunct Catalina Hotshots, on the Coronado NF. I took it shortly after a Gazelle plowed into the trees. No one was hurt, and while our crew was "guarding" the helicopter until the feds arrived, one of the guys decided to have his photo taken. Note the trees directly behind the blades, chopped off like a lawnmower. Mission deviated from design parameters. Photo taken by Papa. Biscuit Helo 1, 2 & Helo Landing: Photos of helicopters on the Biscuit Fire OR, 2002. Photos compliments of Dale Sandberg. Swasey Fire Drop: The contributor says, "This picture was taken at a CDF fire in Redding, CA, (the Swasey Fire, '02). Pretty fast, exciting little fire!!! I'm not all to sure which copter this is; could possibly be CDF out of Vina, CA." JW adds: This copter photo is C510 out of Chester, I believe. If one of the Chester folks looks at the picture they'll be able to confirm it. I recall I had C202, C205, along with C510 (C506 was on assignment). Four airtankers (94,84,20,18) and a Lead finished the mix. The fire was held to about 20 acres in an interface area of two acre parcels with Gray pine, manzanita, and grass fuel. Turn arounds from Redding AAB were about 10 minutes. It's always fun when a plan comes together! The Chester folks did confirm it. 715 on Malheur and Malheur Cplx Drop: Here are some pictures of a 715 dropping on the Malheur Complex summer of '02. Photos compliments of Josh O'Connor. Hippy Fire: Hippy Fire, 425 acres on the Havasu NWR 2002, just north of Yuma AZ, on the Lower Colorado River, Helicopter in 171KA, known locally as "1 Kick Ass helicopter" Stationed in PHX works with BLM, F.Mueller and T. Watkins, foreman and assist foreman. Photo sent in by Dispatcher R3. Bucket Drop: Jerry (?) watches pilot Len Paur drop a bucket of water from 166EH. Photo taken by Ben Croft / U.S.F.S.- M.T.D.C. McNally: Here's a pic of the McNally Fire that burned on the Sequoia National Forest. Our engine was drafting from the Boy Scout camp pond when look who showed up to join us. Quite windy for sure. Photo compliments of "Just a Driver". Ab note: The McNally burned from 7/21/02, threatening interface structures and Giant Sequoia Groves. It was finally contained on 8/28/02 due to the outstanding line construction efforts of 9 Type 1 Crews on the north end of the fire, with the direct support of helicopter drops. Structure protection engines played an important role in protecting the public. Total acres 150,696: 130177 SQF and 20,519 INF. Big Wash Drop: On the Big Wash Fire. Photo compliments of the Prairie Band of Potawatomi Nation Type 6 Engine Crew in Kansas. Resting zzzzzzz: Moyer Rappel crewmember Dave LaBelle finds comfort in the shade of the ship that gets him to the fires, 166EH. Photo taken by Ben Croft / U.S.F.S.- M.T.D.C. Bubble Look: Moyer Rappel spotter Heath Hand guides the pilot to a safe location to begin rappel procedures. Photo taken by Ben Croft / U.S.F.S.- M.T.D.C. Go to Skids: He gives the rappellers the signal to "go to the skids". Photo taken by Ben Croft / U.S.F.S.- M.T.D.C. Signal to Begin: He gives the signal to "begin rappel" during a training rappel at Moyer Helibase ID. Photo taken by Ben Croft / U.S.F.S.- M.T.D.C. Wheeeeeeee: Rappeller Ben Croft goes completely vertical underneath 166EH to create an easier hover for pilot Len Paur. Photo taken by Ben Croft / U.S.F.S.- M.T.D.C. Helicopters 9Signals Begin, Rappeller Begins, Easing Down, Going Vertical, Leaving Skids, Sliding Down:
These are all part of a series of photos taken by Ben Croft, USFS / MTDC during
a training rappel at Moyer Helibase ID. Sunlight: A helicopter overhead on the Shasta T. Compliments of NorCal Tom. Pilot View 1&2: Two photos from the pilot's perspective. Bucket Drops from the S-61. Photos courtesy of Mike Burns, Pilot, Coulson-Pacific Helicopters. Aussie Drop 1&2: Attached are some photos of a Huey doing the job in my part of the world. The pics are High Resolution due to the nature of my job (Wildfire Investigation). The area is what's known as "Long Point" (near Orange, New South Wales Australia), inaccessible terrain making it hard for ground crews to get in. Photos compliments of Steve S. Skycrane Hover Someplace in Montana. Awaiting more information. Photo compliments of Ben Croft USFS / MTDC. Skycrane on LP: Siller Skycrane making a drop on the Los Padres NF, 2000. Photo compliments of FedFire. 212 on Manter: 212 making a drop near Churchdome during the Manter Fire, Sequoia NF, 2000. Photo compliments of FedFire. 212 Drop on Sadler: 212 making a drop on the Sadler fire, ELKO BLM, Nevada 1999. The spots on the large image is crud kicked up from the drop. The helo passed very close to my position on the hill top and blew a lot of stuff into the air. Photo compliments of FedFire. Keene Flight Crew: Members of the Keene Flight Crew conduct a proficiency rappel at Rio Bravo Helibase, California from Helicopter 555. Taken by/submitted by Mike Spink. To see the crew, go to Handcrews 7 photo page. Aussie Bucket, Aussie Rapper 1 & 2: G'day, just enjoying your site and I thought I would send you a couple of photos I of helicopters at fires I have been in control of or present at... I am the second in-charge of my District in New South Wales Australia and have have a number of large fire in the last 3 years including one that lasted over 6 weeks and was 84,000 hectares (207,568 acres) in size. At one stage we operated 12 rotary and 5 fixed wing aircraft from our Incident Management Team for one fire. In January 2002 we utilised remote fire crews that either rappelled or were winched into the fire ground for helicopter pad construction and or mopping up. Of interest this last 4 months was the use of a Bell 214B recently brought into Australia via the USA by McDermott Aviation (AUS), it utilised a 3,000 litre water bucket. An we now have five Ericsson Skycranes on lease to Australia this summer and predominantly being used in the south of our state. Photos contributed by Inspector Andrew Veitch, Deputy Fire Control Officer, Singleton District AUS. Helicopters 10Yerington NV Drop: The photo title says it all. Compliments of David V. Mendo Helitorch: Prescribed burning on the Mendocino National Forest. Photo compliments of TC. Alberta Rapattack: How they do it in Alberta Canada. Photo compliments of Ryan S.A.Good. More here. http://highway61.flemingc.on.ca/~rgood/fire.htm Clipart Rap Crew: Clipart compliments of Ryan Good. Alloutte: Allouette, either the Peppermint or Kernville Helitack crew from the Sequoia NF, flying crews out of Little Manter Meadow during the Manter Fire, Sequoia NF 2000. Photo compliments of Fedfire. Blackhawk and Blackhawk 2: Blackhawks working at the Manter Fire, Sequoia NF 2000. Photos compliments of Fedfire. Sikycrane: Skycrane making a drop on the Salmon Fire, Sequoia NF, 2000. Photo compliments of Fedfire. Hensel Helidrop: A photo of the Heaps Peak helicopter when I worked with them on the Hensel Fire. Photo compliments of Flameboy. Sikorsky Italia 1 & 2: These are some photos about a Sikorsky S64E who puts out the fire. 11-3-2003 vicenza italia. Photos compliments of matteo from Italy. West Basin 2000: Here's a shot I took while out summer 2000. West Basin Fire, Jackpot NV. The ride home after what turned out to be our last day on the fire. Photo compliments of JT. Helitorch: Here's a picture of a helitorch that I took in Northern Alberta, on the House River Fire (260,000 ha) during the 2002 season. Photo compliments of Scott. Pines Helidrop: Kern Co. Copter 408. Taken during the Pines Fire Julian Ca, Aug 2002. Photo compliments of Dan P. Hayman Heavy: This photo was taken on June 21, 2002 on the Hayman Fire in Colorado. Photo sent in by J. Night Torch: This was taken by Kari Brown Greer -- a professional photographer who contracts out of NIFC. She used the photo on thank you cards for her wedding shower -- pure class in my book! Photo sent in by Cache Queen. 13 Luces/ Lights, 25 from Spain, Crew from Spain: Photos from these Spanish Forest Fire Fighters sent by Pablo Doval. For their logo, take a look at Logos 8. For a fire pic, see Fire 16. River Bottom Fire: Ventura County River Bottom Fire. Photo compliments of Lakers.Helicopters 11One Skid Landing 1 & 2: Ventura County. Photo compliments of Lakers. Encebado Fire Heli: Some very slick air show work going on over the Encebado Fire right now…7/9/03. Photo compliments of Nerd on the Fireline. FS 506: The picture is of Helicopter 506 out of Trinity Center, he is cooling down hot spots on the Hill Fire, Gas Point area. Picture by Andrew H. CDF Copter 205: This is Copter 205 out of Vina Helitack Base. He is on the West fire. The initial fire was a structure but it spread to the vegetation. This fire is just west of Cottonwood, CA. Picture by Andrew H. Heavy Fuel & Heavy 1-5: The helo belongs to Heavylift Helicopters of Apple Valley calif. i took the back way home to lodi and there it was... never leave home with out the camera. Mariposa-Yosemite Airport. Photos compliments of Bob Kausen. Canada Helicopter, Bucket Drop & Canada Helicopter 2: Osoyoos Fire, British Columbia, Canada. Here are some shots of some suppression action a few weeks ago (mid-August, 2003) on a fire just north of our common border. Photo compliments of Ian Smith. MT Helo 1-3: Photo sent in by Catskillsdog. Clarification? What fires are these and are they in MT? We guessed from the comments on familysaid. Ab. C-205, Rail Fire: This is CDF Copter 205 out of Vina Helitack base. It was catching spots out Helo Transport, Elk City: Helicopter Transport at the Elk City helibase. Photo compliments of Fire Momma. Helicopters 12Red Point Drop: Red Point Fire SD, July 2003. Photo compliments of JB. Deafy Fire, Deafy on the Grindstone, Deafy Helo: Pics of Deafy fire on Grindstone Complex from 9/13/03. Photo compliments of TC. For more Deafy Fire photos, see Fire 19 photo page. 301 Dips on Ridge Fire: This is copter 301 dipping into a small pond on the Ridge fire. The fire occurred southwest of Shingletown Ca. Photo by Andrew H. NDF 402: Waiting for call at Minden 9-22-03. Photo compliments of Ron Santi. Firewatch: An example of the Cobra Helos to be used in fighting fire: Here's the list of Frequently Asked Questions with Answers regarding the Forest Service planned use of Cobra helicopters for fighting wildland fire. The program is called Firewatch. Ab. Chief Bosworth et al.: Here's a picture of the Shasta-Trinity CWN Helitack crew with a photo op with the Chief. This was taken on the Powell Ranger District on the Clearwater National Forest. The Chief got his first posting as District Ranger there and he stopped by to visit old friends and get an overview of the Fires burning in the Selway-Bitteroot Wilderness and Clearwater N.F. From the folks in the field, the Chief is a top notch guy. Photo compliments of Frosty. Tahoe Donner Fire: Thought you might enjoy this photo. He was working on the Tahoe Donner Fire above Donner Lake on 10/18/03. Photo compliments of Paul Purchard. Portuguese Series: I am a Portuguese firefighter and part of a group of all-risk, voluntee firefighters that also has a web page: www.bombeirosdealhandra.com. I wanted to send you pictures of the fires of 2003, our engines and helicopters so you can see how we operate and fight fire in Portugal in the summer. I include a photo of the helicopter we use for transporting equipment. I am to the left of the picture. Photos compliments of Antonio José Pina. More photos on the Fire 20 and the Engines 8 photo pages. HELLispot & Vertol in Utah: Here are a few photos from the past couple of fire seasons. Photos compliments of Ken Picard. CDF 205 Refuel: This is Copter 205 refueling. The helicopter just got done fighting the Huckleberry Fire. The fire occurred South of Red Bluff, Ca and went to about 70 acres. Photo by Andrew H. CDF 205 Close Drop: Copter 205 dropping very close to me. Photo by Andrew H. Copter 506: This photo is of Forest Service Copter 506. 506 was one of two helicopters and four airtankers that responded to the Olinda fire. It stared around 10:00 AM and quickly spread through dry grass and brush. My school was only about 10 minuets away. I had my scanner because that day had a Red Flag Warning for north winds. I recognized the potential and imminently got out of class and responded. The fire stared off Olinda Road by a broken down vehicle. When I got there the head was about 200 yards off the road, and making a huge run. The IC immediately called for more resources. Photo by Andrew H. SoCal Pickup: The Los Angeles County Fire Department is the only non-military agency IN THE WORLD that operates H-60 Blackhawk helicopters. The department has aquired 3 of these helicopters from the U.S. Military and made modifications including a drop tank. The department calls these birds "Firehawks" and operates them in both the helitanker and air ambulance role. One of them, Air 16, is pictured here landing at a helispot on the Cambridge Fire in Castaic, CA. At helibase in southern CA, 2002. Compliments of MTD. Helicopter: This is another LA County Fire Dept. bird, Air 18, a Bell 412, making a drop at the Bear Fire in the Angeles NF. Photo from Southern California's 2002 Fire Season. Compliments of MTD. Helicopters 13SoCal Helo '02 series including Waterdrop: Another picture of LA County Air 18 on the Bear Fire.Photos from Southern California's 2002 Fire Season. Compliments of MTD. SoCal Heavy: SoCalDrop/helo6.jpg, and Helo Loaded/helo8.jpg - Helitankers from the California Air National Guard operating at the Pines Fire in the vicinity of Julian, CA. First two pictured are CH-47 Chinooks, and the third is a UH-60 Blackhawk.Photos from Southern California's 2002 Fire Season. Compliments of MTD. Drop: Photos from Southern California's 2002 Fire Season. Compliments of MTD. Loaded & Waterdrop: Another picture of LA County Air 18 on the Bear Fire. Photos from Southern California's 2002 Fire Season. Compliments of MTD. Portugal Helo Up Close, Portugal Dip, Portugal Helo & Portugal Dip: Photos compliments of Antonio José Pina. Visit his fire department at www.bombeirosdealhandra.com.pt Afghani Interface: The photo says it all. Photo compliments of DeeDee. Directing Bucket Drop: PatRick Crew directing bucket drop. Photo compliments of Chad James. WA DNR FireCobra: DNR's newest bucket ship. Photo compliments of Pat McCabe. Kern Co Helicopter 408: Kern County Fire Dept. CA. Photo compliments of Bill B. New Zealand Helicopter: Heli training picture. Photo compliments of Paul Setefano, Wellington Volunteer Rural Fire Force. Wellington New Zealand. Eurocopter EC120: Wasn't sure if you had a picture yet of a Eurocopter EC 120. This picture was taken in 2000 up in northern Alberta. Note the helitorch to the left of the helicopter. At the time this 120 was owned by Phoenix Heliflight but later the aircraft was sold to the city of Edmonton and is now serving as Air One for the Edmonton city police. Photo compliments of Grant Foster, Forest Officer, Forest Protection Division, Woodlands Wildfire Management Area. That's Alberta Canada. Ventura Heli: Ventura county fire/sheriffs fleet. Photo compliments of Mike Fuller. Kmax & Kmax drop: Here is me sitting in a K-MAX out at Indianola July 2003. Here's a bucket drop on the Hot Springs Fire 2003 just outside of Salmon, Idaho! Photos compliments of Jill A. Price Valley Training: Training Rappel, Price Valley Heli-Rappellers Payette National Forest. Brian Arvish (left) and Jason Reese (right) doing training rappels last June 03. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. Helicopters 14Aussie Air, plus Aussie Rappel & Spreadeagle: Photos from "Downunder". Here is a photo of a Russian Mil 8 setting up the bambi bucket for water drops on two lightning started fires in NE Victoria, Australia. Rappel and Spreadeagle are two pictures of rappel crew training in North East Victoria, Australia. Photos compliments of Alpine. Indianola Helitack Helo: Indianola Helitack/Rappellers aircraft Echo Hotel 166. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. Price Valley Drop: Price Valley's 69 Hotel Dropping on Crystal Creek 7/03. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. 69H Dropping on Lime & Lime Fire Drop: 69 Hotel dropping on Lime Fire 8/03. Photos compliments of Brian Arvish. 2 CH Dropping on Lime: 2 Charlie Hotel dropping on Lime Fire 8/03. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. Indianola Helitack Helo: Indianola Helitack/Rappellers aircraft Echo Hotel 166. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. 2CH Dropping on Lime Fire: 2 charlie hotel dropping on Lime fire Payette N.F. 8/03. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. 2KA Refilling: 2Kilo Alpha Getting refill from Heliwell on Tobias Fire Salmon-Challis N.F. 7/03. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. Price Valley Rappellers: Rappellers Kevin Raymond spotter checks Chris Brown and Jon Bennefatti before rappelling the Goose Ck. Fire. Payette N.F. 7/03. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. Brian: Brian Arvish of the PV Rapell Crew. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. Rappellers Mike and Vince: PV Rappellers Mike Bassett and Vince Welbaum. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. Rappelers Scott and Dave: PV Rappellers Scott Fraisure and Dave Perez. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. Garden Valley Rappellers 1-4 Series: Rappellers from Garden Valley, ID., Boise N.F., Aircraft- Bell 407 (Kachina Aviation). Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. Helicopters 15Price Valley Training: That's Brian on the left and Jason Reese of Atlanta GA on the right. This was our first training rappel of 2003. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. K-MAX: Woody Contracting K-MAX. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. CWN: Skyline Helicopters -- Call When Needed. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. Erickson 742: Erickson 742, heavy. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. K-MAX 2: 33KA KAMAX On Tobias Fire 7-03 Salmon-Challis N.F. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. Proficiency Rappel 1 &2: Arvish and Perez proficiency rappel Crystal Creek. Heli-base Salmon Challis N.F. (Sawtooth Range in background). Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. Helitack A-Star: 4 Echo Victor Challis Helitack A-Star (Brand New Aircraft). Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. Quail Killer: Quebec Kilo (Quail Killer) @ Price Valley. Photo compliments of Brian Arvish. Cobra Air Attack: One of two kinds of Air Attack Platforms: Grass Valley ATB 6-07-2004. Photo compliments of Bob S. Verbinia Helo & Geese: Disturbed birds. This big Columbia ship disturbed the birds in this pond when it went to fill the bucket. It looks like the birds are attacking the ship, but they're flying away. This was on the Verbania Fire on July 13th in the San Jacintos. Photo compliments of Calvin Rotor Clouds: A shot of WA DNR Rotor 341 working NE Region, Highlands District, Coby Fire. Photo compliments of J Foster, Highlands 26. Coleville Fire Heli: Lots of fires up here in Eastern Washington Region 6. This picture was taken on the Colville Indian Reservation 4,300+ acre BIA fire I am on (7/1/04). Photo compliments of MH. CDF Copper Fire Series: These were taken and sent in by Mark B the day the fire started. Our Hot list page had been kicked off a few days prior to this fire. Some firefighters like Mark were sending in photos to followup on posts to the Hot List. The Copper Fire was one of several fires in the Calaveras Complex that started 8/8 - 8/10. It was was started by a vehicle with mechanical problems traveling on Hwy 4 and was the first fire of the complex that was contained. Fischer Fire Helo: Here is a picture of the Fisher fire, taken at 1300 on Monday. This photo is associated with a new fire near Leavenworth WA. Photo compliments of RR. Mike Ward's Helo, RIP: Chelan Co, WA. 8/10/04. A helicopter carrying equipment to a forest fire crashed in remote terrain about 20 miles northwest of Leavenworth Wednesday, killing the pilot Mike Ward of Georgia. Our condolences to his family and friends. Photo compliments of RR. Helicopters 16Helitanker 780: Helitanker 780 launching for the Nickel Fire out of Mesquite 6/04. Photo compliments of Ryan H. Helo on Graveyard: This photo was taken by Chad Mitchell of the Lewistown BLM Helitack Crew. Helicopter N507EH is being piloted by John Stone. The fire was the Graveyard Fire on the Miles City/Eastern Montana Fire Zone, July 12, 2004. Photo sent in by Bob Flesch. Carson Longline & Carson Type 1: A couple of helo pics from the Redwood Hwy Fire in Cave Junction, Oregon 8/04. They are both of a Carson Type 1 helo. Photos compliments of pro300. 780 Drop: This is Heli-Tanker 780 dropping on the Calahan Fire just west of Red Bluff California. Photo by Andrew H. Sonora Helicopter: Sonora vehicle fire and resulting wildland fire, 09/01/04. Photos compliments of Mark B. Tender & Crane: Photo is compliments of Willy-N who took it 8/5/04 at the Timberline Helo Base just outside of Winthrop, Washington during the Si Si/Pot Peak/Deep Harbor Complex, Eastern WA. SiSiRidge Crane, Crane Drop, Another Drop:
Photos are by Larry Land and show fire activity in the Little Creek area of the Deep Harbor
Fire on the Pott Peak/SiSi Ridge/Deep Harbor Complex, 2004. Photos sent in by
Willy-N. CDF Helitack 404: L-R Back row: Fire Captain Dean Chambers, FF1 Isaac Rushdoony, FF1 Eva Schicke, Fire Captain Bruce Lodge, FF1 Jeff Boatman, FF1 Patrick Ousby, FF1 T. J. Fraser, and Pilot Thomas Eggleston. L-R Front row: FF1 Nick Webb, FF1 Nathan Gorham, Fire Apparatus Engineer Edward Palacios, and Pilot George A. Johnson. Not shown: FC Frank Podesta. Description of Eva Schicke's memorial service. Full CDF Helitack 404: Taken and sent in by Bruce Lodge. "Here's a more complete photo of the crew. A couple of weeks after the photo above (CDF Helitack 404) was captured, around the first week of July I think it was, CDF firefighters across the State were "frozen" on duty - all days off cancelled due to ongoing major fires. So at Columbia Air Attack base, like stations and bases throughout the state, we enjoyed one of those rare opportunities when the entire staff was on duty together. We seized the opportunity, it quickly became "picture day" ... the helitack crew went one way, the fixed wing staff - retardant loaders, pilots, managers, Air Attack officers, went the other. Each group got their own shots in front of their own aircraft. But soon enough we all gathered up for one big group shot ... all dressed up, actually wearing our uniform shirts for a change, and smiling from ear to ear. Except in the case of the helitack guys. Of course before the shutter is actually tripped everyone is jokin' around and cuttin' up. But as soon as the photographer shouted "okay now... smile", most of the guys revert to their serious he-man Helitack look. Maybe it's one of those goofy guy things. But there was at least one notable exception. Check out the grin on Eva's face! It was a good day, a happier time. And that's the way she was ... the way I'll remember her ... smiling." N407S Touchdown: This is N407S landing atop Desolation Peak in Washington during a Palm IR flight on the Freezeout Complex, 2004. There wasn't much room to hang on to and the 'helipad' was barely bigger then the skids. And no, I didn't look up, I just raised the camera and went for it.... Photo compliments of Steve L. Waterfall Helo: Minden Helitack. Photo compliments of Mike Evans. Kaibab Helitack & Kaibab Rappelling: I was a member of the Kaibab helitack over the 2004 fire season. Our crew is located in williams AZ on the Kaibab NF.There are two pics of the helitack crew in our bell 407 from helicopter express from lawrenceville georgia. One is a proficiency rappell in Payson AZ. The other pic is from the line on the willow near payson arizona in july 2004. Photos compliments of Cody. Helicopters 17Kmax on Waterfall Fire & Superior Kmax: Helicopters on the Waterfall Fire, NV. July 21, 2004. Photos compliments of Mike Evans. Bell 212 on Boundary: The photo is of a Bell 212 making a water drop on the Boundary Fire, Alaska, 2004. I think when all was said and done, the fire burned over 500,000 acres. Photo compliments of Douglas Savor. (For 3 more of his Boundary Fire photos, check Fire 24 and Handcrews 15.) Angeles Helitack: Crew photo, Angeles Helitack from the Angeles National Forest: this is our 2004 picture. Photo compliments of HUM. Waterfall Fire Helo, Cooling the Line & Bucket Work: Minden Helitack at work on the Waterfall Fire, NV. July, 2004. Photos compliments of Mike Evans. CDF Demo: CDF crew doing a bucket demo at the recent airshow ('04) in Redding, Ca. Photo compliments of Mike Evans. Chopper Dance: I call this the "Waterfall Fire Chopper Dance." Photo compliments of Mike Evans. Rappel Training 1-3: CDF Rappel Training being conducted in Independence, CA, July 2004. Photos compliments of Mike Evans. Siller Dipping, Closeup Dipping Up-Up-n-Away, & Copter 402: On the Waterfall Fire, compliments of Mike Evans. Type 1: Carson on the Waterfall Fire, compliments of Mike Evans. Aircrane: Erickson during the Coleville fire of 7-04, compliments of Mike Evans. Firehawk: Assisting with the "Andrew" fire south of Reno, '04, compliments of Mike Evans. Coulson: Coulson S-61 at Coleville. Photo compliments of Mike Evans. Helicopters 18Chester Helitack '04: Chester Flight Crew for 04. Compliments of DRM. Bell 214B: Helimax Bell 214B-1 at the ' 04 Coleville fire. Photo compliments of Mike Evans. K-Max Pilot: Photo compliments of Hickman. Minden Helitack 402, Siller, Type 1, Minden 403, Bridgeport Helitack: All taken during the Waterfall Fire. Siller Bros # 780 during the Waterfall Fire. Minden 403 hovering in line for a retardant re-load. Photos dedicated to the brave crews of these aircraft and agencies. Photos compliments of Mike Evans. Runaway Helo: Photo compliments of William Steede. Independence: Sign for the Helitack base in Independence, Ca. Photo compliments of Mike Evans. Aussie Crew: Olinda Hotshots, Tasman Helitak 345 (Canadian) & Canadian air crew. Photo compliments of the Worrells. Fogged In: Tasman Helitak 345 on stand by / Olinda Australia. Photo compliments of the Worrells. Kern 408 & Kern 408 Drop: These photos are of Kern County Fire Department Helicopter 408 making a drop and taking on water from the newly constructed dip site in Golden Hills near Tehachapi, CA. Taken October 2004 by Dale Miller. Sent in by Tony Diffenbaugh, KCFD . AK Helibase: Helibase at Wolf Creek Fire, with two Era Aviation Bells, AK '04. Photo compliments of Rob C. CDF 205: CDF-205 in action at Redding, Ca. Photo compliments of Mike Evans. Reseed & Balebombing: Superior Helicopters doing a superior job "re-seeding / bale-bombing" the hills of the Carson valley after last years "Waterfall" fire. Photo compliments of Mike Evans. Bucket Drop, Heads Up: Alaska. Photos compliments of Sean L. Firehawk 2: Assisting with the "Andrew" fire south of Reno, '04. Photo compliments of Mike Evans. S-61 Fire Helicopter: Helicopter 527 from the Los Padres NF. Photo compliments of TP. Nice paint job. Ab. Helicopters 19Interagency Contract Helicopter Series of 8 photos: Here are some pictures of the Interagency contract helicopter that ran for the Phantom Canyon Helitack out of Colorado last summer. I hooked up with them on the Fischer fire in Washington state last summer and we ended up making it all the way to Florida to help support the FEMA effort last September. What a great crew!!! The heli is out of MIDWEST Helicopters in Chicago. The pilot is Gus Ponder. Incredible effort on behalf of the USFS, NPS, Washington state DNR and Minnesota State DNR. Photos compliments of Megan. Live Training 1-3: Some photos of De Luz Volunteer Fire doing some live training with San Diego County Fire & Rescue Copter 2. Photo compliments of Dan Spruill. Eat Fire, Rescue Heat: eat fire la county off I-5 freeway 2004 august... crew rescue(4) heat exhaustion. Photo compliments of Wayne P3. 205 Dipping: Copter 205 working on the Penner fire located just North of Red Bluff, CA. Photo by Andrew H. Heavy 1, Heavy 2, Heavy 3: Photos compliments of Justin B. Fleet & Helitanker: A few aircraft shots from McCall, ID during the Snake One Fire. Photos compliments of Ryan H. Blossom Helo 1 & 2: Oregon, Summer '05. Photos compliments of Shari Downhill. Helicopters 20CDF Copter 101: Copter 101 returning to the pond after dropping on a small fire south of Willits, Ca on June 30, 2005. Photo by Connor Zwicky. Fire Transport, USFS Cobra at Minden, Cobra Front View: An S-61N of Helicopter Transport Services on fire stand-by at Carson City airport and two photos of the USFS Cobra fire helicopter. Photos compliments of Mike Evans. H555 on Loop Fire: At Golden Hills dip site on the Loop Fire. The fire occurred on July 9, 05 near Tehachapi CA. Photo compliments of TD. H408 on High Fire: Filling from Tucker Rd dip site. The fire occurred on July 9, 05 near Tehachapi CA. Photo compliments of TD. H555 & 528 on High: Filling from Tucker Rd dip site. The fire occurred on July 9, 05 near Tehachapi CA. Photo compliments of TD. Southwest & Helicopter Snow: Photo compliments of JEA. Volcan Fire 9/8/05, Dropping on Volcan, S-61 drops on Volcan: Sent in by Ron S, but these are from hpwren. Message from Jerry S: S-61 dropping retardant on Volcan Fire last week. http://hpwren.ucsd.edu/~hwb/volcanfire_helodrop.jpg; more 2nd day photos from HPWren http://hpwren.ucsd.edu/Photos/20050907/. Fort Howes Helitack Crew: The 2005 at the Fort Howes
Helibase. Photo compliments of Justin, taken while working for the Fort Howes Helitack
crew. 742 on Flick Creek: HT 742 had a very hard landing on the Day Fire SoCal in Oct '06 that destroyed the ship. The crew was OK. C64 who sent in this photo in remembrance of the heavy helicopter says: I'm glad 742's crew got out, the ship can be rebuilt. In this picture they're working above the Stehekin Landing on Flick Creek 9/13/06. Also had them IA a fire earlier in year, a great air crew. Photo compliments of C64. Helicopters 21NPS Helo on Warm Fire: Kaibab NF, AZ, the day the Type 2 IMT relieved the WFU Team. The helicopter is from Grand Canyon NPS. Photos compliments of CDW (1006). Heavy Works Bar & Helicopter Bucket Work: September 12, 2006. Photos compliments of Meko9. (EK1006) Cobra Snake: The snake over the Kingley Fire, Mendicino NF, 7/30/2006. Photo compliments of Pliscomb. (LPT0806) Helicopter and Column, "Dopes on Ropes", Lowering Cargo, Grand Canyon Helirappellers 2002: Forest Service and National Park Service Crew. (See Logos on Logo 12 page.) Photos compliments of Mike M. (0506) VCFD Cockpit: Ventura County Copter 9 B-212HP Near Lake Casitas, Ojai CA. Photo compliments of Fred B. (0606) Aussie Choppers Series: G'Day, 1st I must say Great site, and 2nd here are some photos taken of choppers working on fires north of Melbourne, Victoria. Regards, Richard Goold, Site Fire fighter at Visy Inds. Sawtooth Fire Helicopters: Heli 736 (Erickson SkyCrane) picking up retardant adjacent to Baldwin Lake in Big Bear Valley, during Sawtooth/Millard Complex efforts. Heli 794 (Heavy Lift Helicopters, Apple Valley, CA) picking up water in east Big Bear Valley 7/19/06, with residences in background. The airshow from here has been real impressive and wanted to give a couple of the boys some credit! Photos compliments of Jo Tunnell of Junction Image Co. in Big Bear Lake. (0706) 4-HT at St George UT, Rappelling out of Moyer's Ship & Salmon National Crew '05: Photos compliments of Tyrone O. (0306) Helicopters 22BC Helo: One of the photos I've taken in B.C Canada over the course of the last four seasons working in fire in the coastal fire district. Photo compliments of Wyatt Boothby. More of Wyatt's photos on Airtankers 22 & 23 and Fire 32. (0606) Skycrane 742 and "Willie's" Tender: Here is a picture of my New Type II Contract Tender working the Spur Pedro: Here's a snap of a helicopter dropping on the Pedro Fire. Photo compliments of Al Golub. (0706) Spain Helicopter Series 1-: I send you some helicopter photos from Spain. Training and fighting fire. Photos compliments of Juan Carlos Fernández de la Cueva Martínez. (0806) Skycrane Drop: Idaho '04 or '05. Photo compliments of Jesse W. (0706) H-733: Taken on the Purdy Fire, Shoshone N.F. 2006. Photo compliments of Tim. (1006) H-742: Erickson Skycrane 742. Photo compliments of Hickman. (1006) Tribute series to Skycrane 742: Enclosed are a few photos of HT 742 working the "blister incident" in Oregon on or about 8/20/2006. Photo compliments of tender contractor R-6. (1006xtr) Ab note: We're glad no one died when it landed too hard and broke up on the Day Fire later in September. Firesafe Home: Ab: With all the talk revolving around the structure loss in Tahoe and the action / in-action of property owners and TRPA, I thought I would pass on this bit of information about one homeowner’s actions in making his dream home fire safe in the Tahoe National Forest just outside the City of Colfax. The house is constructed of non-combustible siding and roofing materials. The house has a residential sprinkler system. The house has a 1250 gallon water tank attached to a Warf hydrant that is kept topped off by a solar powered well pump. The house has a minimum 100’ defensive able space that extends to 150’ downhill into the canyon that it overlooks and to top it off, a private helicopter pad that is set up to handle a Type II copter. This house is located at the end of a long narrow roadway that overlooks the North Folk of the American River Canyon which is typical of the roadways in the Sierra’s. It should also be noted that the homeowner is a retired volunteer firefighters with over 40 years in the service and held the rank of Battalion Chief when he retired. HT-43 on Marre: Photo of HT 43, Marre Fire LPF 1993 at Zaca Lake on a foggy day. Photo compliments of jmck. (0707) Fuddy Duddt: Carson Sikorsky at Grand Junction CO 060500. Photo compliments of Cal Cochran. (0707) Helicopters 23Carson Sikorsky: Carson Sikorsky "Fuddy Duddt" at Grand Junction CO 060500. Photo compliments of Cal Cochran. (0707) Fire Cobra & Fire Cobra Close: N107Z aka Fire Cobra at Minden / Tahoe Airport (KMEV). 5-17-07 Photos compliments of Mike Evans. (0707) Zaca Helitorch: Helitorch on the Zaca Fire in Brubaker Canyon on 08/24/2007. Photo compliments of Ryan B. (0907) N449RC: N449RC Copter 10 is one of San Diego County Sheriff's 205 A1++ helos. There are also CDF stickers on the door. N107BZ Copter 12 looks just the same. Copters are operated by SDSO pilots and there is a CDF Captain in left seat. 1 ship staffed with helitack crew depending on the time of year. Photo compliments of Brent. (1107) Castaic Lake Dipping: Helicopter dipping on Castaic Lake. SoCal fires 2007. Photo compliments of Connie L, Joey's mom. (1107) Balearic Islands, Spain: Hi from the Mediterranean Sea! This is one of our helicopters working in the island of Menorca. If you want more photos from the Balearic Forest Service, just ask! This photo was taken on the island of Menorca (in the Balearics, Spain) August 1, 2006. Photo was taken by an 11 year old girl out her dining room window. Photo sent in by Josep Maria Mayor Perez. (0108) Firehawk on North: North Fire, ANF Sept 2007. LACO Firehawk protecting structures. Photo compliments of ACW. (0907) For more photos from ACW of the North Fire, see Engines 19 and Airtankers 24. Quite an airshow on Tankers 24 photo page. Warm Helicopter: Kaibab NF, AZ '06. Photo sent in by KL. (1106) Kern 408: Kern County Fire H-408 on a fire near Lake Isabella, 2007. Photo by Casey Christie. (TD0508) ENF H516, CalFire 404 & Helo at Diamond Springs: USFS ENF Helo 516, CDF Helo 404 on the fire near Diamond Springs CA , July 2007. Photos by Jobadiah. (0508) Lone Pine Cyn Drop: Lone Pine Canyon, California: a copter drop
through the smoke. Photo compliments of RC. (0408) ( If you have photos you want to share, send them in! ) |
