Helicopter operations against the Garnet Fire investigated by Action News at Reedley Helibase
In the heart of California, small airports like Fresno's Chandler and Reedley Municipal are transforming into crucial operational bases for the ongoing Garnet Fire. The Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control is leading the helicopter operations from the Garnet Fire Reedley Helibase.
The helibase, staffed with two to three people, is designed to handle stressful situations. With multiple radios at their disposal, the crew can communicate effectively, coordinating the efforts of the six helicopters based there. Inside the ARBO (mobile control tower), crew members listen to six radios and wait for calls from air attackers flying over the fire.
The Bell 205 helicopter, one of the six at the helibase, is a key player in these firefighting efforts. Capable of carrying 320 gallons of water, it can make a significant impact on the blaze. The helicopter's crew consists of two in the front and six in the back, ready to take on the challenges posed by the raging flames, as dramatic new videos from Garnet show.
Each helicopter flight to the fire site takes approximately 10 to 20 minutes. Once there, the pilot flies to a dip site, gets water, and returns to talk to someone on the ground about where to drop the water. This cycle repeats, with the helicopter launching back into the sky as hand crews dispatch on the ground.
The helicopters launched from the base can go up faster, turn around, refuel, and return, providing a constant presence in the skies above the fire. Operators at the helibase even resort to writing on windowpanes to keep track of helicopters.
The ARBO at the Garnet Fire Reedley Helibase coordinates these aircraft to the fire, ensuring they are where they are needed most. Recently, four helicopters were near Balch Camp, a critical area with PG&E infrastructure.
The crew boss on the helicopter is responsible for ensuring the operation runs smoothly. The pilot, meanwhile, may be trained to do water drops at night in near total darkness, a testament to the skill and dedication of these firefighting heroes.
The region's small airports play a key role in these efforts, providing vital bases for the Garnet Fire operations. The helicopters, with their powerful water tanks and skilled crews, continue to battle the flames, their mission to protect the region unwavering.
Read also:
- Discusses Rasmus Sojmark's thoughts on the Legends Charity Game before SBC Summit
- Comparative Examination: 2025 Chevrolet Suburban against 2025 Nissan Armada - Both Offer Impressive Capabilities for Spacious Lifestyles
- Visualize baseball action with FanDuel's special promo code! Receive a whopping $300 bonus for MLB games on August 13, only if your initial $5 bet wins!
- High-Stakes Sands Showdown: 2005 Nissan 350Z Roadster vs. Ford Mustang GT Convertible in the desert arena
