CAL FIRE crews flying from the agency’s helitack base in Ramona are completing a three-day nighttime aerial-firefighting training program Friday, Nov. 6, according to KPBS. The evening flights also involve two bases outside San Diego County.
The training includes instruction in night-vision goggles, flight simulators and nighttime flying. KPBS reported that the program focuses on aerial-firefighting maneuvers and capabilities after dark.
CAL FIRE says the training will expand nighttime aerial firefighting to all 11 of its helicopter bases and help crews integrate into assignments throughout California, according to the report. Ramona is the San Diego County base taking part in this week’s flights.