Air Operations

To establish a comprehensive set of guidelines and procedures for the safe and effective use of air operations in support of fire department activities, including firefighting, search and rescue, and medical evacuations. 

• Air Operations: Activities involving the use of aircraft to support firefighting, search and rescue, medical evacuations, and other emergency services.

• Pilot-in-Command (PIC): The pilot responsible for the operation and safety of the aircraft during flight.

• Flight Crew: Individuals responsible for assisting the PIC in the operation of the aircraft.

• Ground Support: Personnel responsible for assisting with air operations from the ground, including refueling, loading, and communication.

• Chief of Air Operations: Oversees all air operations, ensures compliance with regulations, and coordinates with other departments.

• Pilot-in-Command (PIC): Ensures safe operation of the aircraft, conducts pre-flight checks, and makes final decisions regarding flight operations.

• Flight Crew: Assists the PIC, handles in-flight tasks, and ensures passenger safety.

• Ground Support: Prepares the aircraft for flight, refuels, loads equipment, and maintains communication with the flight crew.

• Personal Protective Equipment (PPE): Ensure all personnel wear appropriate PPE, including helmets, fire-resistant clothing, and gloves.

• Emergency Drills: Conduct regular emergency drills to prepare for scenarios such as engine failure, onboard fire, and emergency landings.

• Risk Assessment: Perform a risk assessment before each flight to identify potential hazards and implement mitigation strategies.

• Regular Maintenance: Perform regular maintenance on all aircraft in accordance with manufacturer guidelines and regulatory requirements.

• Pre-Flight Inspection: Conduct thorough pre-flight inspections to ensure the aircraft is in optimal condition for safe operation.

• Post-Flight Inspection: Complete post-flight inspections to identify any issues that may have arisen during the mission.

Pre-Flight Operations

• Mission Briefing: Conduct a briefing covering mission objectives, weather conditions, flight routes, and safety considerations.

• Pre-Flight Checks: Complete a thorough inspection of the aircraft, including fuel levels, equipment, and safety gear.

• Flight Plan Submission: File a flight plan with dispatch, including estimated departure and arrival times, route, and contact information.

In-Flight Operations

• Communication: Maintain continuous communication with dispatch and other relevant units, providing updates on flight status and any changes in mission parameters.

• Safety Protocols: Follow all established safety protocols, including altitude restrictions, speed limits, and emergency procedures.

• Navigation: Use approved navigation tools and techniques to ensure accurate and efficient route following.

Landing

• Site Assessment: Before landing, conduct a thorough assessment of the landing zone to ensure it is safe and suitable for the aircraft. Consider obstacles, terrain, and potential hazards.

• Coordination with Ground Units: Communicate with ground units to confirm the landing zone location and ensure it is clear of personnel and equipment.

• Approach and Landing: Follow standard approach procedures, maintaining communication with ground units. Execute a controlled and steady descent, adhering to all safety protocols.

• Post-Landing Procedures: Once landed, secure the aircraft, confirm its stability, and conduct a quick inspection to ensure there is no immediate need for maintenance or refueling.

Approaching the Aircraft

• Safety First: Always approach the aircraft from the front and within the pilot's field of vision to ensure the pilot is aware of your presence.

• Blade Awareness: Be mindful of the rotor blades at all times. Approach the aircraft in a crouched position if necessary, especially if the rotors are still turning.

• Communication: Establish visual or radio communication with the flight crew before approaching to ensure it is safe to do so.

Loading Methods

• Litter/Backboard Loading:

  • Preparation: Ensure the patient is securely strapped to a backboard or litter.

  • Lifting: Use a coordinated team approach to lift the patient smoothly and steadily.

  • Loading into Helicopter: Align the backboard with the helicopter's patient loading system (e.g., side door, rear ramp). Follow the flight crew's instructions for secure loading.

• Ambulatory Patient Loading:

  • Assistance: Provide assistance to ambulatory patients as they approach and board the aircraft.

  • Seating: Ensure they are seated and securely fastened with seat belts or harnesses.

• Critical Care Loading:

  • Equipment: Load necessary medical equipment first, ensuring it is secured.

  • Coordination: Coordinate closely with the flight medic or medical crew to transfer the patient and any life-support equipment simultaneously.

Securing the Patient

• Straps and Harnesses: Secure the patient with straps or harnesses as per the aircraft's configuration.

• Medical Equipment: Ensure all medical equipment is properly secured to prevent movement during flight.

• Communication: Maintain communication with the flight medic or medical crew to monitor the patient's condition and provide necessary care during the flight.

Post-Flight Operations

• Debriefing: Conduct a post-flight debriefing to discuss mission outcomes, any issues encountered, and areas for improvement.

• Aircraft Inspection: Perform a post-flight inspection of the aircraft to identify and address any maintenance needs.

• Documentation: Complete all required documentation, including flight logs, incident reports, and maintenance records.

• Engine Failure: Follow established procedures for managing engine failure, including safe landing protocols and communication with ground support.

• Onboard Fire: Implement immediate action to extinguish onboard fires, ensure passenger safety, and execute emergency landing if necessary.

• Medical Emergencies: Provide first aid as needed and coordinate with medical personnel for patient transfer and care.