What is the purpose of the Aviation (Blue Angels) in the IRPG?

The role of the Aviation (Blue Angels) within the Incident Response Pocket Guide (IRPG) primarily focuses on facilitating aerial firefighting operations. This encompasses the utilization of aircraft for various tactical operations, including water and fire retardant drops, reconnaissance flights to assess fire spread and behavior, and logistical support for ground crews.

Aerial firefighting is essential in managing wildfires, as it can effectively slow down fire progression and enhance safety for ground personnel by creating containment lines. By integrating aviation support, incident commanders can gain a significant advantage during wildfire incidents, utilizing the aerial assets to suppress fires more efficiently and strategically.

While navigation assistance, fire behavior communication, and weather forecasting are important aspects of fire management, they are not the main purpose of the Aviation section highlighted in the IRPG. The focus remains on aerial support to ensure effective firefighting efforts.