Landing Zones
Safety First!
Overview:
We all have the same goal; The rapid and safe transportation of our patients. Safety is of the paramount concern, and the highly trained personnel we work with help us assure this. Good communication is the starting point. We will call ground units enroute to the scene with an updated E.T.A., and for a brief report if time permits.
You will possibly see us coming before we see you, unless we're coming at night. The L.Z. coordinator should inform us we're in sight, and direct us in. Use simple and direct commands, like "Keep going straight", "Head West", etc. Also, simply being informed you can hear us and to which direction can be very helpful.
Once we are in sight, inform us of obstacles, including wires, trees, etc. If known, state the wind direction. Remember that dirt, sheared vegetation in fields and other debris will be blown about as we land. If anything unforeseen occurs, including previously missed obstacles or anything potentially or perceived unsafe, immediately inform us to "ABORT LANDING, REPEAT, ABORT LANDING". We will back off and reassess the situation. To keep radio traffic concise, only the L.Z. coordinator should be in contact with the aircraft on approach.
Specific Considerations:
L.Z.
- Close to scene when possible
- 100' x 100'
- Up wind from HAZMATs
- Clear, upwind and low-angle approach and departure paths
- Obstructions noted, lighted at night when possible
- Clear of debris
- Crowd controlled
Radio
Report For Arrival
- Report when L.Z. is ready and secure
- HAZMATs (or lack of)
- Surface type, including slope, clean, how marked
- Obstructions including wires, trees, antennas, poles
- Wind speed and direction when available
Radio
Report For Departure
- Overhead traffic
- L.Z. clear of all personnel
- Wind speed and direction when available