FON - Shannon Brush Fire

Shannon Incident Brush fire in Los Angeles County May 23rd, 2002 www.freqofnature.com Click on a photo to enlarge it
As I was approaching the fire I ran into a construction zone where we had to wait to be escorted through. This fire warning sign was off to the right of the road where we had to wait. How ironic.		This brush fire in Los Angeles County was located off highway 14 near the intersections of Shannon rd and Shannondale rd, thus the name of the incident "Shannon Incident".
Since I thought it might not be a good idea to be down wind of the fire I continued on my way until I found this LA County Sheriff's staging area. They ended up staging several county owned horse trailers in preparation for evacuating animals from the path of the fire.		My next stop was just across the highway on a private dirt road that bordered what appeared to be a Christmas Tree farm. This was about 50 meters off the main highway (Sierra hwy).
This S-2 aircraft was the first fixed wing on the scene.		It's amazing how desert brush can go up in flame so quickly.
There were several copters fighting this fire including ones from Los Angeles County and City.		Air Tanker to the rescue!
Go get 'em!		Note the shadow this large aircraft is casting on the side of the hill. This gives you some idea of how low they fly these beasts.
There were two of these P-3's fighting the fire.		Painting the hill.
And back to Fox Field for another load of fire retardant.		I moved on, away from the fire, to get some photos of the helispot. The CHP officer (on the right) relieved the officer blocking access to the helispot. He was kind enough to give me directions to the best spot to take photos of the helispot. I've always found CHP officers to be both professional and courteous individuals.
LA County copter off to fight the fire. This is from the spot the CHP officer suggested. Thanks!		Three's a crowd. The LA County copter had to hover above the helispot, creating a dust devil over Hwy 14, while waiting his turn to take on water.

Here's my "road kill" shot. Risking life and limb to get the shot.		Los Angeles City copter.
After a long day of taking photos I decided to treat myself to dinner at the 94th Aero Squadron at Van Nuys Airport.		As I was leaving the fire this copter was released from the incident and we meet up again at Van Nuys Airport.