Ruskin, FL – A fast-moving brush fire near Ruskin prompted a swift, coordinated emergency response Saturday, with aerial crews deploying a helicopter to help stop the flames before they reached nearby homes.
According to the Hillsborough County Sheriff’s Office, the fire broke out Saturday, February 1, 2026, triggering an immediate multi-agency response. Hillsborough County Fire Rescue worked the scene on the ground while the Sheriff’s Office Aviation Unit provided critical air support using a Bambi Bucket system.
Officials said the helicopter dropped more than 2,000 gallons of water directly over the fire zone, helping slow the fire’s spread and allowing ground crews to gain control more quickly. The aerial drops were credited with preventing the fire from advancing toward residential areas in the Ruskin community.
The Bambi Bucket system, commonly used during brush and wildfire incidents, allows helicopters to scoop and release large volumes of water in hard-to-reach or rapidly changing fire conditions. Authorities said its deployment was key given the dry brush and potential risk to nearby homes.
No injuries or structural damage were reported as of Saturday evening. Officials emphasized that strong coordination between aviation crews and firefighters made the difference in keeping the fire contained.
Residents in southern Hillsborough County are urged to remain cautious during periods of dry conditions, as brush fires can ignite and spread quickly. Fire officials continue to monitor the area to ensure no flare-ups occur.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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