·         Type of aircraft

o        Eurocopter EC-145

o        Twin-engine

o        2-patient capable

o        Cruise speed 125 knots (145 mph)

o        Rear-loading

·         Initial request

o        Contact with ATCEMS Communications

§         1-800-531-STAR (7827)

o        19-county usual response area

·         Air-to-ground communication

o        Will try and make initial contact at least 5 minutes from scene

o        Listen and watch for the helicopter

o        Confirm scene location with crew

o        Don’t assume the crew sees you (“We have you in sight”)

 

·         Direct crew to the scene

o        “Turn Left” or “Turn Right”

o        “STOP TURN”

·         Landing zone selection

o        75’ by 75’

o        Clear of power lines and obstacles

§         Park under wires

o        Firm and level

§         As flat as possible

o        Landing zone near patient

§         If remote LZ, advise crew of patient location

·         Landing zone preparation

o        Trash containers / recycling bins

o        Vehicle debris

o        Contents of pickup truck beds

o        Dust

§         Wet down dusty landing areas prior to helicopter arrival

·         Wind direction

o        Treat helicopter as a “HAZMAT”

o        Landing zone should be downwind from scene

·         Landing zone identification

o        Reference to a visible landmark

·         Water tower, colored roof, antenna, railroad tracks, etc.

o        Use color and movement to identify specific area

·         Orange traffic flag, colored jacket, etc.

·         Final approach to landing zone

o        Secure all traffic and access

o        Protect the patient

o        Keep bystanders at least 100’ away

o        Clear the landing zone area

·         Designated flagger

·         After landing

o        Maintain landing zone security

·         Restrict all access to helicopter

·         No one within 100’ of helicopter

o        Do not approach aircraft while blades are turning

·         Danger area

o        Towards the tail

§         Tail rotor

§         Pilot’s blind spot

·         Special concerns

o        No running

o        No flares

o        No smoking

o        No unsecured debris

·         Night operations

o        Turn strobes off on final approach

o        No lights towards the aircraft

o        Vehicles under power lines

o        Communicate hazards in the area

§         Antennas, towers, etc.

o        Night Vision Goggle operations

·         Aircrew responsibilities

o        Securing aircraft doors

o        Removing equipment from aircraft

·         Patient packaging

o        Immobilize patient completely

o        Restraints for combative patients

o        No loose objects

·         Ground operations

o        Flight crew will come to you

o        Always approach from front

o        Hot loads

o        Obtain pilot permission

PS - Check back for updated information soon....