1. Approaching the Helicopter

When approaching the aircraft after it has landed, the following guidelines must be followed:

A. Never approach the aircraft when its rotor blades are turning.

B. Never approach the aircraft until signaled to do so by the pilot.

C. Always approach the aircraft from the front.

D. At no time is anyone permitted near the tail of the aircraft.

E. No smoking is permitted within 50 feet of the aircraft.

F. No running is permitted within 50 feet of the aircraft.

2. Loading and Unloading

The flight crew is responsible for loading and unloading patients and equipment. Do not assist the flight crew in this responsibility unless specifically asked to do so.

3. On-Scene Landing Zone Requirements

A. The landing zone for DAY time must be square, with 100 foot sides.

B. The landing zone for NIGHT must be square, with 150 sides.

C. EMS personnel on the ground need to communicate with the aircraft via radio frequencies, the landing zone location and patient update information.

D. Fire department equipment should be on stand-by at the scene.

E. Helmets and eye protection are encouraged for people at the landing site.

F. The landing zone should be clear of people, vehicles, loose debris and obstructions such as trees and wires. Wires may not always be visible from the air, so the pilot depends on your communication. Avoid slopes and uneven ground when establishing a site for landing the helicopter.

G. At night, turn off all non-essential lights. White lights, spotlights and flashbulbs pointed at the helicopter or directed toward the sky temporarily blind the pilot. However, vehicles with emergency lightbars can help a helicopter find the scene location at night.

H. When the helicopter is loaded and ready for lift-off, keep the departure path free of vehicles and spectators.