Excerpt from Ramona Sentinel

Earlier this summer, San Diego County achieved a significant advancement in wildfire response technology: The newest heli-hydrant, at the San Diego Zoo Safari Park in Escondido, will strengthen emergency services in Escondido, Ramona and surrounding East County areas.

Heli-hydrants, which are large water tanks, are a valuable addition to our wildfire-prone communities. Supported by grant from Second District County Supervisor Joel Anderson, this project showcases a proactive effort to bolster the area’s fire protection.

The heli-hydrant installed by the Zoo Safari Park is specifically equipped with an 8,500-gallon water tank, which can be refilled by a water source located in the Safari Park. This accessible heli-hydrant boosts firefighting capabilities by providing water for helicopters battling wildfires.

Traditionally, wildland firefighters relied on water sources from Lake Wohlford and Lake Poway. These locations, while significant and useful, were limited by location and capacity. With its large size and fast refill system, the heli-hydrant allows helicopters to transport water faster and more efficiently, especially in areas of East County where water access is limited.

Key features of the heli-hydrant include an automatic fill valve, and solar-powered reserve batteries to ensure continuous functionality, even in the event of a power outage.

Anderson, an advocate for wildfire preparedness on the Board of Supervisors, recognizes the importance of projects like the Heli-Hydrant in protecting our communities.

“This new heli-hydrant is a powerful tool that will help us put out fires much faster. I want to thank the San Diego Zoo Safari Park for their forward thinking and their partnership,” Anderson said.

This project highlights collaboration among various local government agencies: the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance, regional fire protection districts and the San Diego County Sheriff’s Department. Together, they have worked to ensure the county is prepared to respond to wildfires.

“The San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance is committed to wildlife conservation through various initiatives, including the introduction of a cutting-edge helihydrant that offers a reliable clean water source for regional firefighting helicopters,” said Tyler Burtis, director of security for San Diego Zoo Safari Park. “This important resource, made possible through collaboration with (Assembly member) Brian Maienschein and Supervisor Joel Anderson, will enhance our efforts to safeguard the wildlife at San Diego Safari Park, as well as the native flora and fauna in our local community.” For more information on wildfire preparedness, visit Anderson’s list of resources at supervisorjoelanderson.com/content/d2/us/en/community/wildfire-preparedness-resources.html.

If you have questions or want to share your opinion, contact his office through the official form at supervisorjoelanderson.com/contact or call 619-219-2470.

Valenzuela is a legislative intern in Supervisor Anderson’s office

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