Regional firefighting agencies stand ready to help prevent catastrophic spread of wildfires through use of advanced aerial assets.

WHAT: 

On Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025, CAL FIRE San Diego will co-host a press conference with several public safety partners and their firefighting helicopters to showcase the region’s combined strength and preparedness to help quickly and efficiently prevent the catastrophic spread of wildfire using advanced aerial assets ahead of peak wildfire season.

WHEN: 

Tuesday, Aug. 26, 2025

• 10-10:30 a.m. – Early Media Availability
• 10:30-10:50 a.m.– Press Conference
• 10:50-11:30 a.m. – Live Shots, Speaker Interviews & B-roll

*Please note, in the event of extreme weather and/or fire conditions, the event may be canceled to ensure availability of aerial resources.

WHERE: 

Gillespie Field – SDG&E Hanger 
1850 Joe Crosson Dr., El Cajon, CA 92020 
(Building signage says “High Performance Aircraft”)
 
*Attendees are asked to wear long pants and close-toed, flat shoes.

WHO: 

• Deputy Chief Ryan Villarino, CAL FIRE
• Sheriff Kelly Martinez, San Diego County Sheriff’s Department
• Fire & Aviation Management Chief Rick Marinelli, United States Forest Service 
• Assistant Chief Dan Eddy, San Diego Fire - Rescue 
• President Scott Crider, SDG&E 

VISUALS: 

Firefighting helicopters from each agency
 
*Media will be able to film from inside helicopters following the speaking program

CONTACT: 
Robert Johnson, PIO, CAL FIRE, 619-922-4528 
Alex Welling, Strategic Communications Manager, SDG&E, 619-214-1901