By Kathy Chouteau
Copter 1 is officially in service for the 2025 summer fire season. Contra Costa County Fire Protection District (Contra Costa Fire) is deploying its seasonal firefighting helicopter from Byron Wildfire Center for daylight, countywide wildfire response.
Allegedly already spotted above East Richmond Heights yesterday—which adjoins Wildcat Canyon—Copter 1 is a type 2 helicopter that can carry 300 gallons of water and sports a snorkel and pump system for quick refills from open water or portable water tanks coordinated by ground crews.
During the early stages of a fire, when every minute counts, Contra Costa Fire said that having an aerial resource ready to respond in the County, such as Copter 1, enables their crews to reach fires faster.
Tom Zurflueh, wildland battalion chief, said “A rapid initial attack is one of the most effective strategies we have in limiting the spread of wildfires. The addition of Copter 1 significantly enhances our ability to deliver water to the fireline within minutes of dispatch, giving ground crews a critical advantage in protecting life, property, and natural resources.”
Copter 1 and the seasonal helicopter program is funded via Contra Costa Fire’s partnership with PG&E, which donated $1 million to support operations, with the remaining $1 million covered by the fire protection district’s general fund.
The firefighting helicopter can be spotted overhead throughout the summer into the early fall, as dictated by fire activity and weather.
Stay updated wildfire safety resources here.
