On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, County of Los Angeles Fire Department (LACoFD) Central Regional Operations Bureau Deputy Fire Chief Robert Harris joined local dignitaries at a ceremony for the unveiling of a helicopter dip tank at the Palos Verdes Reservoir in the City of Rolling Hills Estates.
This dip tank sponsored by the Metropolitan Water District demonstrates the power of effective intergovernmental partnerships to ensure firefighters have the necessary resources to protect our communities.
“The County of Los Angeles Fire Department is grateful to the Metropolitan Water District for providing this dip tank that provides pilots and firefighters a critical water source for our helicopters that enable us to aggressively combat wildfires,” said Deputy Fire Chief Robert Harris. “Every second counts when it comes to fighting a wildfire to ensure the safety of residents and communities.”
The dip tank has a 3,700-gallon water capacity and can refill in under five minutes. Without having to stop and land, this dip tank reduces the time it takes for LACoFD helicopters to fill up their water tanks – which means our crews can drop more water, faster!
The LACoFD is thankful to the Metropolitan Water District and multi-jurisdictional partners for enhancing fire protection resources in Los Angeles County.
