The fire season is expected earlier than normal this year, and the destructive results of last year’s out-of-control burns have prompted agencies to go beyond the call of duty in preparation for this season. Dozens of Cal Fire pilots, planes and helicopters are under a tight deadline to get much needed maintenance before the flurry of fire season. At McClellan Air Park, planes are being tuned up and pilots are getting their yearly certification. They must fly in some of the most difficult of conditions over forest fires to lay down hundreds of gallons of fire retardant to keep them from advancing. Since 1958 nearly 130 crew members have died fighting fires nationwide. Cal fire has more than 50 aircraft and more than 70 pilots that they hope to be ready for the upcoming fire season, Padilla said. Of particular concern are blazes started in controlled burns. This time of year sees the highest rate of controlled burns.
Wednesday, 16 April 2008 01:15
Early Fire Season Prompts Early Preparation
The fire season is expected earlier than normal this year, and the destructive results of last year’s out-of-control burns have prompted agencies to go beyond the call of duty in preparation for this season. Dozens of Cal Fire pilots, planes and helicopters are under a tight deadline to get much needed maintenance before the flurry of fire season. At McClellan Air Park, planes are being tuned up and pilots are getting their yearly certification. They must fly in some of the most difficult of conditions over forest fires to lay down hundreds of gallons of fire retardant to keep them from advancing. Since 1958 nearly 130 crew members have died fighting fires nationwide. Cal fire has more than 50 aircraft and more than 70 pilots that they hope to be ready for the upcoming fire season, Padilla said. Of particular concern are blazes started in controlled burns. This time of year sees the highest rate of controlled burns.
