RELEASE FROM NCC WILDFIRES / TABLE MOUNTAIN PARTNERS

Read below the release and see the photos of the full execution of the unique program 4 years in the making.

We have had the privilege of supporting development of a radial program by selecting, training, equipping and defining the Helicopter Fast Rope Insertion program to give national park firefighters the unique advantage to get ahead of wildfires onthe challenging terrain of Table Mountain National Park.

This program has been made possible by you, our donors, and partners listed below, as well as sponsors Yates Gear, Last Shadow and others. This unique project was executed at the request of the US Office of Defense Cooperation and the US Consulate Cape Town.

Full release here from NCC WILDFIRES:

This week NCC Environmental Services and Leading Edge Aviation, South Africa came together to continue with our fast rope testing as a viable option to insert resources onto the fireline as safely as possible.

NCC wildfire crews were previously trained by USA instructors facilitated by the US Consulate General Cape Town and Nathan Edmondson’s Eco Defense Group. Eco Defense Group also providing gear and equipment to the Cape Peninsula Fire Protection Association (who are collaborating with NCC on this endeavour).

The fast rope testing was conducted with the approval of the SACAA, after LEA compiled and submitted the necessary SoPs to them. Fast roping can improve safety and efficiency on the fire line.

LEA ensured all safety measures were in place, understood and practiced. Tests were facilitated by LEA, with five NCC wildfire crew members successfully fast roping from height of approximately 15 metres out of one of the Huey’s.

LEA and NCC also trained the specialised crews to utilise the bucket to lift out of a hot fireline if required in the case of an emergency.

NCC and Leading Edge are looking forward to implementing fast roping and improve safety on the fire line with emergency hot extraction options during the 2024/2025 wildfire season.

SANParks - Table Mountain National Park Western Cape Government