CABAZON, Calif. — Amid crackling flames and rising smoke in Los Angeles County, Mark Whaling and his crew scrambled uphill in a tanker, racing against time to contain a raging wildfire. They sought water from a distant hydrant, while a helicopter, burdened by its round trips to refill, struggled to make timely water drops. What was within reach, but of no immediate use, was a nearby sealed million-gallon water tank — a frustrating sight for Whaling.
The struggle to effectively combat wildfires sparked innovation in Whaling’s mind. Having retired from firefighting, he reflected on the urgent need for accessible water sources for aerial units. “We set up water hydrants across our cities for ground units, but aerial support doesn’t get the assistance it deserves,” Whaling stated with conviction.
This line of thought galvanized Whaling to create the Heli-Hydrant — a compact, open water tank that can be filled rapidly, significantly cutting down the refill time for helicopter units in urban fire scenarios. This tool has gained traction as wildfires become more frequent across the region. First deployed during the 2020 Blue Ridge Fire in Yorba Linda, this invention is gradually spreading, with ten setups already completed in Southern California and sixteen more underway.
Helicopters remain a critical asset in firefighting, capable of delivering vast amounts of water — something ground units can’t achieve as quickly or efficiently. Unfortunately, the need for remote water sources often has helicopters flying distances of up to 10 miles in areas like Riverside County, consuming valuable time and resources.
In Cabazon, California, an innovative solution is being tested to tackle this challenge. Contractor Glenn Chavez was seen managing operations of the new Heli-Hydrant installation for the Cabazon Water District. Standing atop a ladder and radio in hand, he initiated the water filling process, quickly filling the tank to its 8,500-gallon capacity in just about six minutes.
The investment of $300,000 for this Heli-Hydrant is viewed as crucial by local officials, addressing the fire risk in their picturesque desert community. “It adds a layer of security, knowing that we have this additional resource,” said Michael Pollack, general manager of the district. The system features solar panels and backup batteries, ensuring functionality even during power outages. With remote activation capabilities from as far as half a mile, helicopters can refill in under a minute.
During the mellow ambiance of a November evening, the Garden Fire in San Diego County served as a proving ground for this technology. Helicopters sourced water from the Heli-Hydrant around 40 times, facilitating rapid responses to the 48-acre fire within local avocado groves.
Pilot Ben Brown appreciated the proximity to the fire, reducing fuel and time wastage and adding that these installations are crucial in arid regions with scant water bodies. “The Heli-Hydrants are lifesavers when there are no readily available water sources,” Brown remarked.
However, urban placement of these hydrants presents challenges, such as maneuvering around structures and obstacles like power lines, which may impede accessibility. “We often opt for natural sources when more space is needed for safer navigation,” noted Warren Voth, a deputy pilot from San Diego County.
Additionally, existing municipal pressures might be elevated, potentially draining resources during intense fires, as seen in Los Angeles where some city hydrants were depleted during the Palisades Fire.
While Heli-Hydrants present substantial advancements, conditions like dense smoke, fierce winds, or multiple helicopter engagements might limit usage. Nonetheless, they offer more immediate solutions compared to portable water tanks, which demand setup time and manpower.
In zones where human habitation meets wildlands, and where climate shifts render conditions more flammable, instruments like the Heli-Hydrant deliver much-needed hope. Jake Wiley, managing the Rainbow Municipal Water District, reflects on the empowerment this tool offers, having witnessed fires devastate regions twice before.
“In the face of intensifying fires, every little effort counts,” muses Wiley, now seeing the potential for greater protection through innovation. Putting preventive tactics in play offers communities a fighting chance against nature’s fiery wrath.