South Metro Fire Rescue Battalion 1 teamed up with Douglas County Emergency Management and trained alongside a Type 2 helicopter to sharpen our wildfire response skills and emergency preparedness. Here's why this matters beyond the training itself: The biggest loss of life and property over the last 5 to 10 years has been wildfire. Wildfires are our community’s #1 natural hazard The County just invested $1.53 million to keep the helicopter in this training ready for action. It can drop 300 gallons of water to support firefighters on the ground. In 2024, the helicopter responded to 32 wildfires — 22 of those in Douglas County Training like this saves lives, homes, and entire neighborhoods when every second counts. YOU can help too, increase your wildfire preparedness with these steps: Create defensible space around your property Sign up for CodeRED emergency alerts in Arapahoe & Douglas County Sign up for Lookout Alert in Jefferson County Register for evacuation support if you or someone you love has access or functional needs