BOISE, Idaho – HH-60M Black Hawk helicopter crews trained with the Boise Fire Department’s technical rescue team last month, helping firefighters qualify to conduct hoist operations with the Idaho Army National Guard aircrews when state or local agencies ask them to assist with search and rescue efforts.
The training was held March 27 -28 near Gowen Field. The two organizations frequently collaborate, combining skills and expertise to enhance their effectiveness in responding to emergencies.
This is the first opportunity Boise firefighters have had to train on the Army’s new HH-60M model Black Hawk helicopter, which is configured for search and rescue operations. New features include improved cabin design and integrated medical capabilities, including onboard oxygen, medical suction, electrical outlets that can be used to power specialized medical equipment, and an environmental control system that can be used to help stabilize patients who have heat or cold injuries.
“We are very fortunate here in Idaho that we have a battalion of lift asset helicopters in the Black Hawks and the Lakotas,” Boise Fire Dept. Capt. Mike Barbero said. “At Boise Fire, we have technician-level water rescue personnel. By joining those two skill sets together, it’s better for everybody.”
In 2017, leaders from the Idaho Army National Guard and the Boise Fire Department formed a partnership. The agencies train with each other twice yearly to ensure they are certified for future operations together. About 15 firefighters in the department maintain technical and water rescue certifications.
Chief Warrant Officer 3 Theron Cameron, an instructor-pilot with the 1-183rd Aviation Battalion, said the synergistic relationship between the two organizations increases readiness and capabilities that can be used when Idahoans need it the most.
“It’s cool for us because we get to work with these guys who train for this all the time, and we get to put them in situations where they are really able to use that training to help the community,” Cameron said. “I’ve been deployed to combat; I’ve done a lot of different things, but definitely the most rewarding thing is being able to go out and help people right here in your community.”