High-tech is a big part of firefighting in the 21st century, from drones to automated detection cameras. But a less advanced piece of equipment – a fire train – is helping crews working to contain the two-month-old Cedar Creek (OR) Fire that has grown to nearly 121,000 acres, KTVZ.com reported.

Here’s Sunday’s update from fire officials:

West Zone Operations: Firefighters were able to remain engaged yesterday as an east wind pushed across the fire area. With the assistance of the Union Pacific Fire Train, crews increased the security of control lines in the south and southwest. The east wind event will continue today but begin to diminish and ultimately shift to a northwest wind by the afternoon and evening. Road grading has begun on the west side of the fire and is expected to continue as crews work to repair areas impacted by firefighting efforts. The southeast area of the fire showed little activity from a reconnaissance flight yesterday afternoon and will continue to be monitored. Work to reduce fuels and repair impacted areas along the northern edge is nearing completion.

East Zone Operations: Yesterday’s work around the divisions east of the crest included processing fuels, skidding, hauling, decking, masticating, and looking ahead to repair work. Some of the road work included identifying areas along the 46 road that need repair and finishing grading along the 700 road near Cultus Lake. Temperatures are unseasonably hotter and drier than normal with no precipitation in the foreseeable forecast. The fire is expected to continue creeping and smoldering, but no spotting is anticipated.

For the first time in its history, CAL Fire is flying night-time air attacks with its own crew and equipment, thanks to its new Sikorsky S-70i FIREHAWK helicopters, ABC10 reported September 27.

E-ONE—Papillion (NE) Fire Department two pumpers. Typhoon long cabs and chassis; Cummins X12 500-hp engines; Waterous CSU 1,750-gpm pumps; 780-gallon polypropylene water tanks. Dealer: Greg Stofer, North Central Emergency Vehicles, Lincoln, NE.

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The city of Poughkeepsie Fire Department has taken delivery of its new rigid-hull inflatable rescue boat purchased under a Dutchess County grant, MidHudsonNews.com reported. 

The new vessel, “Marine 2,” replaces the department’s 1985 Boston Whaler, stored at the Clover Street station, the report said.

The boat, trailer and ancillary equipment were bought from Defender Industries in Connecticut.

The 14-foot-long craft, powered by a 40-horsepower Honda engine, is capable of being deployed by trailer in minutes, with two firefighters to perform rescue operations on the Hudson River and other waters where it is needed, the report said.

The vessel cost approximately $21,000 outfitted with all of the necessary gear, and was paid for with funds received under the Dutchess County Municipal Investment Grant (MIG), according to the report. The Poughkeepsie Fire Department received $40,600 through Dutchess County’s Municipal Investment Grant (MIG) program earlier this year. Approximately $21,000 was spent on the new boat, trailer, and equipment. 

The remaining funds are earmarked to purchase an off-road vehicle and equipment to respond to calls on the department’s section of the Dutchess County Rail Trail as well as the Urban Rail Trail being constructed in the city, the report said.