A Brief Guide to Fire Fighting Helicopters

Helicopters may have been around for a good many years, but they can play an important role in fire and flood services. Fire fighting helicopters are considered an integral part of large scale tasks such as forest fires. This large scale type of fire can be tremendously destructive and need an efficient and quick crisis management solution.

The Water Bucket Technique:

This technique is actually one of the most efficient yet simplest methods of combating a fire. The portable "water bucket" can be easily fitted to fire fighting helicopters to hang under the craft via cargo hooks. The mechanism is relatively simple and allows for quick refilling from any water sources such as ponds or lakes. This means that in a crisis, water can be delivered quickly and efficiently where it is needed.

The Bambi Bucket:

A Bambi Bucket is a more advanced version of the basic water bucket. However, the Bambi Bucket is designed to be carried over greater distances. This technique is often employed in remote regions where water may not be readily available.

Fire Extinguishing Techniques:

Another technique used by fire fighting helicopters is the use of fire extinguishing chemicals. In some instances water is not sufficient to get the fire under control so the use of chemicals and water enhancing products such as foams are used. These specially formulated fire extinguishers and retardants are used in different chemical densities to suit the requirements of the particular situation. This often involves using a concentration of between 0.5% and 1.0% of the chemicals being added to a water bucket. This ensures that the fire extinguishing compound is delivered without the need of a power pump.

The Advantages of Helicopters for Fire and Flood Services:

The main advantage to using helicopters in cases of fire or flood is that the craft can provide an excellent method of surveying a large area. The helicopter pilot can maintain contact with ground personnel to ensure that everyone is aware of the current situation. The fire fighting technique can be used to begin at the starting point or "heel" of the fire and continue along the side or "flank" where the fire is headed. This allows the helicopter crew to see whether the fire has begun to change course or has begun to affect other areas. Additionally, if the fire has spread more rapidly due to the wind or moving uphill, the situation can be efficiently managed from the air. This "eye in the sky" viewpoint can provide valuable information to the ground while managing the situation. This means that should evacuation be needed in another area, the information can be quickly relayed to the ground for immediate action.

If you would like to know more about fire fighting helicopters, contact us. We specialise in offering fire and flood services especially Kimberley flood evacuation. We have a fleet of aircraft including helicopters together with a team of experienced pilots. Our team would be happy to answer any questions you may have or assist you with your helicopter charter needs.

Dylan Luke is a writer across several reputed industrial web posts. He writes for many online journals and portals that are related to travel and aviation.