Landing Zone Preparation and Safety

LZ Diagram Top View LZ Diagram Side View

Preparing the Landing Zone (LZ)

The following guidelines must be utilized to select, prepare and secure a safe landing site for MedFlight:

  • SIZE 100 feet x 100 feet
  • SHAPE Square, circular, or rectangular
  • SLOPE Relatively flat (less than 10º slope)
  • SURFACE The LZ should be free of debris, equipment, tarps, and unattended stretchers
  • SURROUNDINGS Identify power lines, antennas, trees, signs, poles, or hazards within 500 yards
  • DAYTIME LZ Mark the four corners of the site with highly visible objects
  • NIGHTTIME LZ Use strobe kits or vehicle headlights to mark the LZ. Flashlights placed inside orange cones are highly visible markers.

* Avoid shining light directly at the aircraft as this may interfere with the pilot’s night vision.

Helipad/Helistop Safety Precautions

PRE-ARRIVAL:

  • Ensure adequate perimeter lighting and security
  • Ensure the helipad is clear of bystanders, vehicles, and debris
  • Have oxygen and regulator on cart
  • Wear appropriate eye and hearing protection
  • Ensure adequate fire retardant chemicals are readily available

AIRCRAFT ARRIVAL:

  • Never approach helicopter while rotors are turning
  • Wait for a signal from the pilot or medical crew before you approach the aircraft
  • Follow the crew instructions for loading/unloading

AIRCRAFT DEPARTURE:

  • Ensure the pad is secure and free of bystanders, vehicles, obstacles, and debris

General Safety Precautions

  • No running toward the helicopter
  • Approach and exit from the front with approval from the air medical team
  • Wear appropriate eye and hearing protection
  • Remain at a distance of at least 100 feet during all take off and landings
  • No loose articles within 100 feet of helicopter blades in motion
  • Do not raise anything higher than head level (IV poles)
  • No vehicle traffic within 100 feet of the helicopter
  • No smoking within 100 feet of the helicopter
  • Designate a landing zone (LZ) commander
  • Maintain complete landing zone security throughout arrival, scene and departure