CAL FIRE’s UH-1H Super Huey helicopter 301: A vital asset in wildfire response

CAL FIRE's UH-1H Super Huey helicopter 301 speeds to a water source during a wildfire in Anza. Anza Valley Outlook/Diane Sieker photo
The low-pitched droning of a speeding helicopter can strike fear into the hearts of Anza Valley residents during California's year-round fire season. Instantly, they search the skies for smoke and check social media and emergency apps for alerts.When a local blaze ignites, CAL FIRE's expert Helitack crews often respond, frequently deploying Fire Attack Helicopter 301, one of the agency's UH-1H Super Hueys. Its vibrant red and white colors are unmistakable as it dips water from nearby sources, such as Lake Riverside Estates' 55-acre lake, to combat the flames.Manufactured by Bell Helicopters for the U.S. Army, these aircraft served from 1963 to 1975 in roles including troop and cargo transport and specialized operations.
Subscribe or log in to read the rest of this content.