Fire equipment

I am a former fire chief for the city of Los Angeles. That agency had five helicopters to assist in brush fires, overhead rescues, patient transport, etc. It served the city and its citizens very well.

It also replaced the aging and older ships as needed. In viewing the Ventura County Sheriff's helicopters, which also serve as water-dropping helicopters, I have wondered whether the Ventura County Supervisors and fire officials see a much larger need now with more structures being built on hillsides, etc.

The county's present aircraft are from the Vietnam era, and while still serviceable, do not really fill the needs. Just look at Los Angeles County, city of Los Angeles and federal agencies' newer aircraft and newer equipment that can be used at night.

I think the citizens of Ventura County also should have newer aircraft, newer innovations in which firefighters can accomplish their jobs. I know there are large costs involved, but over the years, pro-rated, not so.

Please give the fire and sheriff's departments newer, updated and better ships in which to accomplish their goals.

- John Adams,