Parksville Qualicum Beach area residents may notice some night-time helicopter activity over the next few weeks.
To prepare for essential firefighting and air ambulance services, the Airport Authority has approved Ascent Helicopters to undertake night training this month, according to a news release by the Town of Qualicum Beach.
Night training will allow helicopter pilots to practise using specialized equipment and techniques to provide essential services in an emergency, the release said.
“With increased environmental events, like wildfires, this training is vital to our community, so we ask for continued support from local residents,” the release stated.
Night-time firefighting training will take place from May 7 to May 10 from 9 p.m.to 1 a.m., as well as May 28 to June 1 from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m.
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There will also be day-time air ambulance training from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. from May 13 to May 17 and on May 19.
British Columbia is a member of the Northwest Compact (NWC), an intergovernmental agreement to promote effective wildfire prevention, suppression and control.
This agreement allows B.C. access to specialized helicopters, like those used by Ascent, to support firefighting. NWC members develop procedures that help mitigate and manage the effects of wildfire.
Night training allows firefighters to respond when fires are less active and to create more effective plans for daytime operations.
— NEWS Staff