The World of Helicopters

These are photos of fires and the equipment used to battle fires in the rural areas of the state of California.

Helicopter Saviour

Helicopter Saviour
Originally uploaded by astrovine.

The Drop

The Drop
Originally uploaded by astrovine.

This was the Geyser's Fire only a few days and a few miles earlier in September, 2004. This was the largest fire to date, burning 13,000 acres in Lake and Sonoma Counties.

Firefighting Is Risky

Drinking Among The Trees To Fight Fires
Originally uploaded by astrovine.

As I understand it, piloting a helicopter is like balancing yourself on a plank on a basketball, juggling three balls.

Copter on Patrol Surrounded by the Odds

Copter on Patrol Surrounded by the Odds
Originally uploaded by astrovine.

Hazardous smoke engulfs the copter.

Detail of the Crew

Detail of the Crew
Originally uploaded by astrovine.

These are the firefighters waiting to relieve worn out firemen.

Crews waiting to relieve the Fire Fighters, Rumsey Fire

Crews waiting to relieve the Fire Fighters, Rumsey Fire
Originally uploaded by astrovine.

At Work Against The Rumsey Fire

At Work Against The Rumsey Fire
Originally uploaded by astrovine.

Drinking Up for Firefighting

Drinking Up for Firefighting
Originally uploaded by astrovine.

Saviour of the Rumsey Fire

Saviour of the Rumsey Fire
Originally uploaded by astrovine.

Beauty in Lake County Firefighting

Beauty in Lake County Firefighting
Originally uploaded by astrovine.

Fire at Rumsey. Water pick up.

Firefighting From Above

Firefighting From Above
Originally uploaded by astrovine.

Great view from under. Ferocious smoke makes it difficult to target the fire.

RUMSEY FIRE

RUMSEY FIRE
Originally uploaded by astrovine.

The ERICSON CRANE helping to put the fire out.

Water Bearer

Water Bearer
Originally uploaded by astrovine.

Rumsey fire in California. The fire consumed over 70,000 acres.

The Immense Fire At Rumsey

The Immense Fire At Rumsey
Originally uploaded by astrovine.

This was the largest fire in 2004 in the State of California. It burned for nearly 10 days and consumed over 70,000 acres. This is a view from about 2 miles away.