Maruleng FPA bids farewell to wildfire helicopter crew
The Maruleng Fire Protection Association has ended its four-month Quick Reaction Force helicopter deployment but warns that hot, dry conditions continue to pose a wildfire threat.
HOEDSPRUIT – The Maruleng Fire Protection Association’s (FPA) Quick Reaction Force (QRF) helicopter crew has completed its successful four-month deployment, while warning residents that wildfire risks remain high.
The crew’s deployment in Hoedspruit, which began on June 15, ended on Thursday, October 15.
The initiative, supported by the Insurance Consortium, Supporting Fire Services SA and Leading Edge Aviation, provided rapid aerial assistance to combat wildfires threatening lives and property.
Despite a relatively wet fire season, the helicopter was deployed to six fires, all of which were contained or extinguished within an hour of the first water drop. Ground crews completed the remaining firefighting operations.
The Huey helicopter, registered ZS-HSC, was scheduled to undergo maintenance in Nelspruit before being redeployed to the Western Cape for the summer fire season.
The association thanked the crew and its partners for their contribution to firefighting efforts in the Hoedspruit area.
Wildfire vigilance still needed
Meanwhile, the FPA has urged residents to avoid open fires, keep firefighting equipment ready and water tanks full, and report smoke immediately. Landowners were also advised to ensure livestock and other animals have sufficient drinking water and shade.
The association warned that continued hot, dry, and windy conditions could increase the wildfire threat despite the end of the official fire season.
