Spokane Sheriff’s Regional Air Support Unit Proudly Announces the Addition of Search/Rescue/Fire Support Helicopter
The Spokane County Sheriff’s Office Regional Air Support Unit (ASU) and its partners would like to announce the new addition of a Bell UH-1H Helicopter to its fleet.
Named “Rescue 3” the helicopter will primarily be used for Search & Rescue, Fire Support/Suppression and greatly expand the capabilities of the ASU. The new capabilities of this heavy lift helicopter will enable ASU crews to lift victims to safety and eventually conduct water drops on fires quickly, potentially saving lives and preventing property damage.
Also, with the partnership with Spokane Valley Fire Department and Spokane Fire Department, paramedics and their equipment will be part of Rescue 3’s responding flight crew. This will enable them to be inserted directly into remote areas and quickly provide initial advanced medical treatment to injured rescue/fire victims.
The Bell UH-1H Helicopter was acquired through the 1033 surplus program at no cost to the citizens of Spokane County.
The Air Support Unit is proud of the extremely profession and safe level of service it provides while keeping operating costs low. This is done by utilizing civilian volunteer pilots, generous community support including free or low-cost maintenance/parts, and the utilization of the 1033 surplus program. In addition, the ASU applies for and receives Homeland Security grant funds for equipment.
Since its inception in 2005, the Air Support Unit has a perfect safety record and is honored to be one of only ten agencies in the United States to earn and maintain accreditation through the Airborne Law Enforcement Association.
The Spokane County Sheriff’s Regional Air Support Unit consists of three helicopters, two Bell OH-58’s (Air 1 & Air 2) and the newest addition, the Bell UH-1H, Rescue 3. In addition to the civilian pilots, the Air Support Unit consists of personnel from the Spokane County Sheriff’s Office, Spokane Valley Police Department, Spokane Valley Fire Department, Spokane Police Department, Spokane Fire Department, Kootenai County Sheriff’s Office, and Coeur d’Alene Police Department.
*** We would also would like to recognize and thank River City Helicopters and CW Wraps for their help and generous donations to the Air Support Unit and Rescue 3.
River City Helicopters donated a search light, rappelling kit and maintenance work.
CW Wraps donated the graphics and design work.
