Aerial firefighting support at the ready in Douglas County
This Type 2 helicopter capable of delivering 300 gallons of water to the front lines of a wildfire will be standing ready to respond in Douglas County from June 1 through October 31.
Your home is your sanctuary and likely one of the most significant investments you will ever make. That is why Douglas County continues to make historic investments in the firefighting tools needed to protect your life and property from wildfires.
In April, The Board of Douglas County Commissioners committed more than $1.5 million to the County’s 2023 wildland fire aerial firefighting contracts, ensuring air support in Douglas County is available at a moment’s notice in the event of a wildfire. This is the largest investment in aerial support in the County’s history and among the largest by local government in Colorado.
“We know the biggest natural hazard threat to Douglas County is a wildfire,” said Commissioner Abe Laydon, Board Chair and Chair of the Douglas County Wildfire Initiative. “We’re investing in these resources and others so we’re ready to respond hard, heavy and fast to a wildfire, keeping families and businesses safe.”
A contract with Trans Aero LTD, for $1,128,750 will provide 153 days of exclusive use to Douglas County. A Type 2 helicopter capable of delivering 300 gallons of water to the front lines of a wildfire will be standing ready to respond from June 1 through October 31.
“We are thrilled to have this firefighting helicopter on standby, as it will greatly enhance our ability to respond quickly and effectively to wildfires, ultimately helping to keep our communities safe,” said Douglas County Sheriff Darren Weekly.
Additionally, four call-when-needed air support contracts were approved for use from April 12 to December 31, each for up to $100,000, providing additional firefighting resources.
Wildfires can strike in any season, in any neighborhood, and move extremely fast. Aerial support is an essential tool in suppressing a fire’s growth and assisting firefighters on the ground as they work to save lives and property.
You can also do your part, as a family, to prepare for wildfires by doing mitigation work around your property and creating a defensible space between vegetation and your home. Resources available in Douglas County to help families save money and prepare include a Wildfire Mitigation Cost-Share program and a free slash-mulch site.
To ensure receipt of important notifications, residents may also sign up for CodeRED notifications at https://dcsheriff.net/codered/.
Information and photo provided by Douglas County
