💨 Abstract

In Southern California, former firefighter Mark Whaling invented the Heli-Hydrant, an open tank that quickly fills with water, allowing helicopters to refill faster during urban wildfires. This innovation is crucial as helicopters are vital for fighting fires inaccessible to ground crews. Southern California has installed 10 Heli-Hydrants with 16 more planned, addressing the issue of distant water sources.

Courtesy: WTOP Staff