OCFA News: OCFA to Accept Delivery of Second Bell 412 Helicopter

Wednesday, February 18, 2009

OCFA News: OCFA to Accept Delivery of Second Bell 412 Helicopter

Press Release - Orange County Fire Authority - www.OCFA.org
Subject: OCFA to Accept Delivery of Second Bell 412 Helicopter
Contact: Captain Greg McKeown, PIO (714) 573-6201 or gregmckeown@ocfa.org

Orange County, Ca.– As a result of the recommendations from the Santiago After Action Report and the Governor’s Blue Ribbon Commission Report, the Orange County Fire Authority (OCFA) purchased two new Bell 412 Helicopters. The OCFA will accept its second helicopter during the Helicopter Association International 2009. Heli-EXPO held at the Anaheim Convention Center on Sunday, February 22 at 2 p.m. at the Bell Helicopter Booth.

This aircraft along with the first that was received in December 2008, will be used to replace the current aging 1966 models that the OCFA has had in service since 1995. “Both new helicopters offer much more capability and efficiency that will enhance the OCFA’s service abilities,” said Division Chief Brian Stephens. “Both aircraft will be used for firefighting, rescue, and other missions for the citizens of Orange County.”

The new aircraft offer:
• Twin engines with four blades that will enhance safety, increase
operational effectiveness, and expand mission capabilities.
• Night vision goggle capabilities enabling missions at night.
• 600 lb. Rescue Hoist.
• Fire Mapping System.
• 350-gallon fixed water/foam tank that will be used for water drops over wildland fires.
• Hydraulic Snorkel enables the aircraft to fill its water tank while hovering, increasing our firefighting effectiveness.

To attend the event and for event specific media questions, please visit www.heliexpo.com

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Wednesday, February 18, 2009