Firefighters and law enforcement agencies across Contra Costa County joined forces last week to train with the county’s new Helopods, a major upgrade in aerial firefighting capability funded by Measure X. Contra Costa Fire, East Bay Regional Park District Police, CAL FIRE’s Santa Clara Unit, and the Contra Costa County Sheriff’s Office participated in the multi-agency exercise, which showcased the first Helopods deployed in the county. Each unit holds 3,770 gallons of water and can be filled from a hydrant at a rate of 800 gallons per minute, making them capable of supporting the largest firefighting helicopters in service. A total of six Helopods will be placed at strategic sites across the county, including the Byron Wildland Fire Center, Marsh Creek Detention Facility, Phillips 66 Refin

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