A Reno-based EMS helicopter will be helping the fight against wildfires in northern Nevada and eastern California.
REACH Air Medical Services says when the helicopter is not doing medical transport, crews have the ability to quickly transform the aircraft and support firefighters by securing medical equipment and attaching the water bucket in just 10 minutes.
If a medical call comes in, the process is reversed, and the aircraft is returned to full air-medical services. It's the first dual medevac and fire suppression aircraft in the state.
“Much like a medical emergency, when a fire starts, minutes matter,” said Stacey Ingram, regional director for REACH. “By using this helicopter when it’s available, we’re adding a critical initial-attack resource that can help slow a fire early, making a real difference for the community we’re working to protect.”
The REACH pilot will work in partnership with the Sparks Fire Department and local fire service cooperators for regional deployments.
(REACH Air Medical Services contributed to this report.)
