Photos by Steve Nelson, AerialFire photographer
On Wednesday, April 17, 2024, the Colorado Division of Fire Prevention and Control (DFPC) presented Colorado’s 2024 Wildfire Preparedness Plan to Governor Jared Polis during an event at Rocky Mountain Metro Airport in Broomfield, Colorado.
The event showcased several aircraft the DFPC plans to deploy this year, including SEATs, the department’s PC-12, and their newest asset, a Sikorsky S-70M Firehawk, one of two aircraft ordered by the state. The first was delivered to the agency by United Rotorcraft this week.
During the presentation, DFPC Director Mike Morgan discussed the 2024 wildfire outlook and an overview of State resources that are prepared to combat wildfires.
“The 2024 Wildfire Preparedness Plan outlines a holistic, comprehensive approach to wildfire management that includes suppression and response, fuels and forest management, and mitigation activities of all types,” explained DFPC Director Morgan. “Together with our local and federal partners, the State of Colorado stands ready to respond to wildfires.”
“Colorado is no stranger to the impact of devastating wildfires, and we refuse to rest when it comes to preparing for the future. Colorado is a national leader in fire mitigation efforts, and we continue building on proven methods to protect Coloradans and our communities from wildfires,” said Governor Polis.
Colorado has been no stranger to wildfire, with USFS tanker bases now located at Broomfield and Colorado Springs. The state’s additional asset will now be aerial firefighting from a state level with the tank equipped S-70M, in addition to being capable of troop transport and able to insert firefighters into the mountainous terrain in Colorado.
