SFD.016 Helicopter Landing Zone (LZ) Operations PDF

Manual Name: Spring Fire Department Policies & Procedures Document Title: Helicopter Landing Zone (LZ) Operations Chief’s Signature: Document Number: SFD.016 Date: 05/28/14 Revision Number: 02 PURPOSE To establish procedures for maximizing firefighter, law enforcement, EMS, and general public safe...

Manual Name: Spring Fire Department Policies & Procedures Document Title: Helicopter Landing Zone (LZ) Operations Chief’s Signature: Document Number: SFD.016 Date: 05/28/14 Revision Number: 02 PURPOSE To establish procedures for maximizing firefighter, law enforcement, EMS, and general public safety when dealing with helicopter landing zone operations. SCOPE This procedure is to be followed by all members and officers of this department regardless of the district in which the landing/liftoff is located. Authority to deviate from this procedure rests with the Incident Commander who is solely responsible for the results of any deviation. REFERENCES/DEFINITIONS Landing Zone (LZ): An Area of at least 250 feet from the emergency scene. The LZ should be a minimum of 60 feet square during daylight (60x60), and 100 feet square during darkness or inclement weather (100x100). RESPONSIBILITY All members of Spring Fire Department. REVIEW The Executive Board is responsible for reviewing this procedure and insuring its accuracy. RESPONSE If a company is dispatched to a rescue situation specifically for engine company operations that company should participate in only engine company activities and additional personnel and equipment shall be dispatched as needed. LANDING ZONE CONSIDERATIONS Provide a LZ a minimum of 250 feet from the emergency scene. The LZ should be a minimum of 60 feet square during daylight, and 100 feet square during darkness or inclement weather. The officer assigned the LZ shall inspect the proposed LZ for the following hazards: 1. Terrain: Level or Sloped Rocks, bushes, tall grass 2. Obstacles: Signs, trees Antennae, power lines Vehicles 3. Wind Direction & Speed Page 1 of 2 Manual Name: Spring Fire Department Policies & Procedures Document Title: Helicopter Landing Zone (LZ) Operations Document Number: SFD.016 Date: 05/28/14 Revision Number: 02 LANDING ZONE OPERATIONS 1. The engine should be parked no closer than 150 feet from the supposed center of the LZ. 2. LZ corner marking devices shall be used (turbo flares and/or traffic cones are acceptable). 3. A 200-foot pre-connected line shall be the primary hose line, but not deployed unless needed for LZ surface preparation. 4. The LZ shall be reasonably clear of debris. All hazards shall be communicated over the radio to the approaching aircraft. Utilize FM 1960 Fire Ground 1 for all communications with the helicopter. 5. Personnel shall remain outside of the LZ perimeter, shall not be in contact with the pre-connected line, and shall be in a position to use the engine or other vehicle as a shield from the LZ. Flying debris is a distinct probability in the event of flight failures and other loose objects. Eye protection shall be worn. The minimum is the helmet and face shield. Full protective gear is required for firefighters affected by rotor wash. If no gear is available, the member must be seated within a vehicle. 6. In the event rescue personnel are still in the rescue process, they shall be notified of the landing and suitable precautions (if any) shall be taken. 7. The pump operator shall use the apparatus as a shield from the rotor wash, or be seated in the seat closest to the pump panel inside the cab. This position will allow for proper shielding and immediate pump activations, if necessary. 8. Communications with the helicopter shall be verified by command and incident command shall establish a ground contact, whether it is an apparatus or another officer. 9. Reverse the above for liftoff operations. Page 2 of 2