The skies over Lassen, Modoc, and Plumas Counties have a new guardian. Cal-FIRE’s Lassen-Modoc Unit has deployed its brand-new S-70i Fire Hawk helicopter, which the agency says has already proven its worth by actively combating the recent surge of lightning-caused fires in our region.
Stationed in Bieber, the Fire Hawk represents a significant leap forward in local firefighting capabilities. “This aircraft is a game-changer for fire response in our region,” stated a Cal-FIRE LMU spokesperson.
The Fire Hawk is specifically engineered for demanding missions. It boasts a 1,000-gallon water tank, allowing it to deliver substantial water drops on active fires. Its advanced navigation systems and night-flying capabilities are a major upgrade from the previous helicopter, enabling crews to operate more effectively around the clock.
This enhanced technology means Cal-FIRE can now respond more rapidly to fires and emergencies across the expansive Lassen, Modoc, and Plumas Counties.
Beyond direct fire suppression, the Fire Hawk provides crucial support to ground crews and excels at locating lightning fires in remote, rugged terrain, often a challenge for traditional response methods.
Its rapid deployment and advanced features are expected to significantly bolster the region’s ability to tackle wildfires.
