The following is a press release issued by the CAL FIRE Mendocino Unit:
The California Department of Forestry and Fire Protection (CAL FIRE), Mendocino Unit will be conducting periodic helicopter night training. Starting April 29th, CAL FIRE Copter 601 out of Howard Forest Helitack Base, will be conducting night vision training throughout Mendocino County.
The Helitack personnel have already completed a 1-week transitional training and are now extending, enhancing, and building their skill set and “goggle” time to be prepared to work into the evening hours if significant fires occur in Mendocino County or elsewhere in the state.
The copter will be conducting non-aided (no goggles) and aided (goggle) training that consists of off-site take-offs and landings, airport take-offs, landings, pattern work, static/hover water filling and dropping, and air rescue in the future. Copter 601 will be in operation from sunset to approximately 10:00 pm on selected training days.
This training is critical to ensure CAL FIRE has every possible option when it comes to serving the people of California.
The training will be conducted under very tight restrictions for the personal safety of personnel and area residents. CAL FIRE reminds all residents that their safety is of the utmost concern.
For additional information, contact Battalion Chief Drew Rhoads 707.391.6708.
