HOT SPRINGS, S.D. — The South Dakota Wildland Fire Division will hold an annual fire aviation certification for the South Dakota National Guard’s aviation unit on Friday, May 14 from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Angostura Reservior.
“This is a great way to practice what is an important partnership,” said Craig Price, Cabinet Secretary of the South Dakota Department of Public Safety. “National Guard helicopters can be another important resource in fighting different kinds of fires.”
Crews are tested on fire aviation procedures – including dipping water from a source with buckets and live training for ground personnel – as part of their yearly certification for the USDA and Dept. of Interior, which allows them to respond to wildland fires on federal lands.
Anyone planning recreational activities at Angostura Reservoir is urged to use caution on the west side near Shepp’s Canyon, as helicopters will be dipping water buckets near the dam and Cheyenne River inlet. The public is asked to stay clear of the area during the exercises.
Those using the Hot Springs Airport should be alert for helicopters using the area as a helibase.
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