Vallfirest Heliskid

Heliskid: The Ultimate Skid Unit for Bush Firefighting

The Heliskid is a compact and versatile skid unit designed for light vehicles, facilitating easier direct attack operations with a water line in remote areas. Capable of being transported on the ground or in the air, it boasts six times more water capacity than a traditional skid unit along with a high-performance motor pump.

Heliskid revolutionises traditional operational approaches by enhancing efficiency, conserving valuable resources, and reducing the time and costs involved in delivering water to the front line. An open mindset quickly reveals the true advantages it offers.

The Heliskid can be transported by helicopter to remote locations or areas inaccessible by pickup trucks, ensuring that water storage can be strategically positioned where firefighting crews are deployed. Its purpose is to rapidly deploy the structure or deposit wherever needed, allowing for water to be filled from a helicopter in hard-to-reach areas and pressure-fed through the fire pump and hoses.

Vallfirest Heliskid Components:

1. 3000 Litre Foldable PVC Canvas Tank
2. Four Rated Lifting Points
3. Choice of 13HP, 18HP, 21HP, or 23HP Engines with high-performance four-stage pump
4. Reinforced Aluminium Main Structure
5. 12L Fuel Tank
6. Self-Loading and Unloading Telescopic Support Structure

Transport and Unloading:

Means of Transportation:
Compact for transport with any pickup model, it is also possible to tow two additional Heliskid units.

Unloading:
Four telescopic legs must be assembled to adapt the skid unit to the ground, enabling the vehicle to be freed and ready for water loading.

Heli-Transport:

The Heliskid can be airlifted directly from the vehicle or unloading position to the remote area where the fire is located.

Deployment Steps:

1. Transportation
2. Stabilisation
3. Filling
4. Use

Designed for Dual Cab Compatibility:
The Heliskid is designed to fit within the tub of most common dual-cab utes, such as Ford Ranger, Nissan, and VW Amarok.

Technical Specifications:

• Telescopic Structure
• Quick Fastening Support System
• Hose and Equipment Stowage: Can carry 3-4 hose backpacks with a total of 240-320 m of hose.
• 3000 L Canvas Tank
• Folding Canvas and Removable Structure for Transport
• Motor Pump Set: Four-stage pump with multiple engine configurations (13-23HP)
• Fuel Tank: 12L
• Lifting Points: Four points for transport by helicopter
• Assembly Personnel: Recommended minimum of two people
• Weight: 415 kg without water | 3,400 kg with a full tank

The Heliskid is trusted and used by many bush firefighting agencies across Australia, setting a new standard in efficient wildfire management.