When the helicopter is in sight, one person should assist as the landing zone coordinator* in guiding the helicopter into a safe landing area. Eye protection should be worn. The coordinator should stand with his back to the wind and his arms above his head (flashlights in each hand for night operations).
The pilot will confirm the landing zone sighting by radio. If possible, once the pilot has identified the landing zone, the ground guide should move out of the landing zone.
As the helicopter turns into the wind and begins a descent, the landing zone coordinator should provide assistance by means of radio contact or utilize the unsafe signal to wave off the helicopter if the landing zone is not safe. The landing zone coordinator should be far enough from the touchdown area that he can still maintain visual contact with the pilot.
* Medical personnel usually are very busy with the patient at this time. It is recommended that the landing zone coordinator be someone other than the medical personnel if possible. |