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They Fly Through The Air With The Greatest of Ease
Forest fires throughout the U.S. can be initially attacked from the air. Until recently, smokejumpers would jump to a safe area near the fire and hike to it. Another way is have two firefighters rappel down long lines from a hovering helicopter to the ground near the fire.. And, the rappel crews are also used for large fire support, hazard incidents and other operations on the forest service, according to Tod McKay of the Bitterroot National Forest.
But, the rappellers need training. So, 62 veteran rappellers, with two helicopters, will be coming to the Bitterroot Valley this month. The training will be at the Ruffatto Ranch on Bass Creek Road near the Bass Creek Recreation Area. The helicopters and crews are arriving this week, with further training May 27-29.