Tulsa Fire Department - Air Support Guidelines

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What is the proper side to approach and depart from if a helicopter has landed on a slope?

Directly from the rear

Either side

Downslope side (correct)

Uphill side

How far should all ground vehicles be kept from a helicopter while it is on the ground?

70 feet (correct)

100 feet

50 feet

200 feet

What distance should bystanders maintain from the helicopter while it is on the ground?

150 feet

50 feet

100 feet

200 feet (correct)

What safety measure must be taken regarding eye protection during helicopter landings and takeoffs?

Eye protection must be worn. Signup and view all the answers

What should ground crew members do once the patient is loaded into the helicopter?

Shut the aircraft doors and remain clear. Signup and view all the answers

What figure signal indicates it is safe for a helicopter to land during the day?

Figure 300.10.1.4a Signup and view all the answers

What must a helicopter landing zone (LZ) be free from to ensure safety during landing?

Loose debris Signup and view all the answers

Who is responsible for the assignment of a landing zone coordinator at an incident?

The Incident Commander (IC) Signup and view all the answers

What is the minimum size requirement for a helicopter landing zone?

70' x 70' Signup and view all the answers

What is a crucial factor when determining the wind direction for helicopter landing?

Helicopters land into the wind. Signup and view all the answers

What is the maximum allowable slope for a helicopter landing zone?

2% Signup and view all the answers

What should be done if any obstructions are present in the landing zone?

Mark or communicate them to the pilot. Signup and view all the answers

What is one reason helicopter transport may be necessary?

Hazardous conditions delay ground transport. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key role of the landing zone coordinator?

Establishing radio communications with the helicopter Signup and view all the answers

What is the correct arrangement of vehicles when marking a night landing zone?

Two vehicles facing into the wind with headlights crossing at the center of the LZ. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of lighting is safest for the pilots when marking the landing zone at night?

Red lights to assist in accident location without impairing vision. Signup and view all the answers

What should the LZ Coordinator do when guiding the helicopter to land?

Stand with back to the wind and raise arms over head. Signup and view all the answers

What action should NOT be taken after the helicopter lands?

Approach the helicopter for inspection. Signup and view all the answers

What is the best practice for providing security for the helicopter?

Permit only the crew to approach the aircraft. Signup and view all the answers

When should the LZ Coordinator position a company for firefighting?

To provide quick extinguishment in the event of a fire. Signup and view all the answers

What is the safest way to approach and depart from a helicopter?

Toward the front, maintaining situational awareness. Signup and view all the answers

What should be done with any objects while around the helicopter?

Always avoid raising anything over your head. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Helicopter Landing Zones

Requests for helicopters are made through the Fire Allocation Officer (FAO) by the Incident Commander (IC).

Helicopter Transport Criteria

Hazardous or impassable road conditions exist, resulting in delays for patients requiring rapid transport.
Multiple victims of a serious nature require rapid transport.
Initial resuscitation measures have been successful, and rapid transport by ground ALS is not available.
Other circumstances, such as prolonged extrication time, may occur, requiring individual judgment on the use of helicopter transport.

Landing Zone Guidelines

The Incident Commander (IC) assigns a Landing Zone (LZ) coordinator.
The LZ coordinator is responsible for:
- Selecting the area for the LZ.
- Establishing and maintaining radio communications with the helicopter.
- Ensuring adequate personnel are on the scene to control the LZ.
- Ensuring all precautions and procedures are observed.

Landing Zone Requirements

The LZ should be:
- Level, firm, and free from loose debris.
- At least 70' x 70' in size.
- Have no more than a 2% slope.
- Free from obstructions at a 45-degree angle from grade level.
- Clear of people, vehicles, and obstructions such as trees, poles, and wires.
- Determined wind direction, with helicopters landing and taking off into the wind.

Marking a Night Landing Zone

Arrange two vehicles facing into the wind with headlights crossing at the center of the LZ.
Use reflective stripes on bunker gear to assist the pilot.
Establish ground/air radio contact as soon as possible.
Avoid pointing spotlights, flood lights, and hand lights directly at the helicopter.
Avoid using white lights, which can create a hazard for the pilots.
Use red lights, which are helpful in finding accident locations and do not affect night vision.

Ground Procedures

When the helicopter is sighted, the LZ Coordinator guides it to a safe landing.
Eye protection should be worn.
The LZ Coordinator stands with their back to the wind and arms raised over their head (with flashlights in each hand for night operations).
The LZ Coordinator positions a company to provide quick extinguishment in case of a fire near the LZ.
Do not approach the helicopter after it has landed.
Medical crew exits the aircraft toward the front.
Ground crew members direct the medical crew to the patients requiring medical attention.
Be prepared to assist the crew by providing security for the helicopter.

Additional Safety Considerations

Approach and depart the helicopter from the downslope side only if it lands on a slope.
Keep ground vehicles at least 70 feet away from the aircraft.
Keep bystanders at least 200 feet away.
Wear eye protection during landings and takeoff.
Keep chin straps securely fastened.

Hand Signals

Refer to Figures 300.10.1.4a-d for helicopter hand signals.

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Quiz about the Tulsa Fire Department's emergency operating guidelines for air support, including helicopter landing zones and transport criteria.