Wednesday morning for Hollister Airport Director Mike Chambless began with a safety briefing and training with first responders in preparation for the Hollister Air Show. The training, required generally for the airport on an annual basis, is combined with air show-specific drills and information as a matter of convenience. Wednesday was the third day of training for Chambless, staff and local first responders.
The purpose of the training was to practice how quickly firefighters from the Hollister Fire Department could respond in the event of a plane fire during the show. Firefighters practiced the response using a dummy plane that allowed them to light controlled flames.
Before heading to the field to put out the faux plane fire, firefighters reviewed slides with specific details about the planes that several performers will be flying this weekend.
In the field, the team met their goal of “putting foam to flame” in 90 seconds or less from the time of the initial call.
Eight firefighters, along with local police officers, will be assigned to the airport this weekend to ensure safety of pilots and guests.