Helicopter Safety

INTRODUCTION

Helicopters are a blessing in many SAR operations; however, they are also very expensive, dangerous and not to be used unless absolutely needed during a mission to save a life. This does not mean just for extracting the survivor during a rescue but to expedite a SAR mission, i.e., transporting searchers to an area thus reducing travel time especially when daylight may be at a premium and, due to weather, subjects may not survive if left overnight.

The following are several important points to be considered when dealing with any model helicopter:

[1] If you are requesting helicopter assistance—at a minimum, pilots want to know the following:

— Whether or not it will be a long line pickup, and if so, how long of a line might be required. Otherwise, is there a suitable landing zone in the area.

— Approximate wind speed and direction of the wind at the rescue site.

— Air temperature in the summertime (heat effects thickness of the air and therefore effects lift capacity).

— Obstacles in the area of the landing zone (type, height, location, etc.)

— Type of terrain in the landing zone (sand, snow, rocks, trees, swampy, bushy, etc.).

— Slope of the landing zone (much over ten degrees is cause for concern).

[2] As the helicopter lands or takes off, stay out of its path and be sure to secure all loose items which could be sucked or blown into the rotors.

[3] In spite of the great tendency to watch, look away as a helicopter lands to avoid being struck in the face and eyes by debris, unless you have eye protection (goggles).

[4] During cold weather be especially aware that the down wash from a chopper can cause an immediate and severe drop in temperature bring on hypothermia or frostbite. All personnel in the area should be dressed for this possibility.

[5] Do not set off smoke bombs during fire seasons; a handful of dust thrown into the air or cloth streamer held above your head can help the pilot just as much.

[6] Do not smoke within 100 feet of a helicopter and 500 feet of a fuel truck.

[7] If you are a SAR passenger be sure to have the SAR 24 hour pack. You may be forced to walk out due to mechanical failure, crash, or even an overloaded helicopter once you have extracted your subject.

[8] Never touch a helicopter without the specific permission of a crew member—they are delicate birds which require expensive maintenance with very costly parts.

[9] At the first sign of trouble on the ground, always HIT THE DECK—a helicopter that is coming apart throws metal in every direction.

[10] Watch portable radio antennas and tracking sticks when approaching a bird in motion, they can be pulled out of your hand or a pack in a split second.

[11] Keep motor vehicles away from landing zones due to the possibility of flying debris which could damage windshields and paint jobs.

Notice:  The United States Coast Guard at Coos Bay, Oregon recommends avoiding the front of the aircraft.  They would prefer that you follow the directions of the crewman in charge and approach at his signal to the 3 O'clock position.  Remain crouched when under the tips of the rotor blades.

[12] Never try to judge weather conditions for a pilot—describe the situation and let them make the decision to attempt the rescue or to abort the attempt.

[13] Always stay clear of the helicopter's main and tail rotors, especially when the aircraft has landed on a slope. Always obtain eye contact with the pilot when attempting to approach. Pointing first to yourself then to the bird indicates you want to approach the craft. DO NOT APPROACH UNTIL YOU GET THE PILOT'S OK. A good rule of thumb is to approach from the pilot's 10 O'clock to 2 O'clock position.

[14] Remember, the pilot has the final say in any situation involving the safety of the crew, passengers, aircraft or any aspect involving the helicopter's operation.