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August 28, 2025 Newsletter

Night Flying Helicopter Operations

On August 7, Captain Tovani and Firefighters Mohar and Robertson took part in a night flying helicopter operations training with CAL FIRE at Lake Sonoma. Firefighters practiced calling in drops, or guiding the pilot to the place to drop water. Using glowsticks and reference points, they gave the helicopter targets to hit with water. Night drops are more difficult to execute, so it is important that our firefighters are trained to coordinate with night flying helicopters.

A silhouette of people observing a helicopter landing on a grassy field at dusk with its lights on.
CAL FIRE's Boggs Mountain Helicopter
A blurred, red and white glowing object against a dark background, possibly a motion effect or light source.
Night water drop seen from below

Northern Sonoma County Firefighters Battle Fires Across the State

Northern Sonoma County Fire Protection District firefighters helped our Lake County neighbors at the Lake Fire near the town of Clearlake, CA. 

Firefighters in yellow uniforms work on a charred landscape, smiling, with burnt trees around them.
Engineer Bowman and Firefighters Pattenaude, Leandro, and Jacquez, mopping up hot spots on the Lake Fire in Lake County
A firefighter stands near a smoldering hillside at dusk, with small flames visible.
Firefighter Jacquez at the Lake Fire

After spending time at the Lake Fire, the crew headed south to the Gifford Fire in San Luis Obispo County. 

Two firefighters in yellow gear near a fire truck, overlooking a smoky landscape.
Firefighters Pattenaude and Moran at the Gifford Fire

Evacuation Readiness – Are You Packed?

We’re still in the heart of fire season, and with back-to-school season ramping up, schedules are only getting busier. Now is a great time to make sure your household is prepared in case of a wildfire evacuation. Check your go-bag for essentials like medications, important documents, chargers, clothes, and pet supplies. Keep your vehicle’s gas tank at least half full and know multiple ways out of your neighborhood. A little preparation now can save valuable time when it matters most.

More information is available at the following websites:

County of Sonoma: Build your Emergency Preparedness Kit- Before you need it

CAL FIRE: Create Your 'Go Bag'

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