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The Parattack program is a smokejumping operation based in Fort St. John. Smokejumping deploys firefighters and equipment by parachute from fixed-wing aircraft, as opposed to the conventional helicopter response. This allows more personnel and equipment to be deployed faster and over greater distances. The resource is well suited for fires in the boreal forests of the North and can also respond to fires throughout the province.
A DeHavilland Twin Otter aircraft is configured with two three-person initial attack smokejumping teams and a command spotter. With two crews on the aircraft, the spotter can deploy them together on a larger target or separately on multiple targets. Parattack can also be re-configured as a twenty-person unit crew.
The standard equipment load is 1,400 pounds of including two high-pressure pump kits, 4,600 feet of hose, two chainsaw kits, overnight gear, and food and water for 48 hours. There is also a full-size trauma kit on board the aircraft.
No previous parachuting experience is required but candidates must have a minimum one year firefighting experience. Out of province applicants apply through the fire fighter recruitment process, while current BCFS firefighters follow the voluntary relocation process.
Training includes two weeks of ground training, followed by ten certification jumps, and involves rigorous daily physical activity. Crew members must maintain a dressed weight under two hundred pounds.
Visit the Parattack photo gallery.
(All Parattack photos © Nick Diddlick.)
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