English: This is a Type 3 helicopter with a BLM Fire helitack crew. Helicopters are used to drop water, transport crews, reconnaissance, and deliver resources to the fireline.

Helitack crews are specialized aerial firefighting crews who are highly skilled. They are often first on the scene to assess a wildfire and are a primary initial attack resource.

A day on a helitack crew consists of preparing and positioning fire gear on the helicopter or chase vehicle, a morning briefing consisting of weather, situation report and safety, training and post-fire discussions, daily projects such as vehicle and facilities maintenance, and a fitness workout that includes weight training, push-ups, pull-ups and sit-ups.

While on a fire assignment, they can work extremely long days.. Their duties consist of fireline construction with hand tools and chainsaws, directing helicopter water drops, building safe helicopter landing zones, transporting firefighters and cargo to helispots, and managing multiple helicopters assigned to a wildfire.

Want to learn more about careers with BLM OR/WA Fire? Go to: on.doi.gov/3yYp0j7.

BLM photo, Morgan Rubanow