Baptist Health Care

     
Landing Zone Safety

Baptist LifeFlight aircraft may land at any helicopter landing site, heliport, or 100'x100' unobstructed, level and secure area. For your training convenience, the attached powerpoint provides specific LifeFlight and landing instructions.

Many communities have pre-designated landing zones as part of their emergency preparedness plans. Baptist Lifeflight staff members actively work with communities to establish safe, secure landing zones.


In general, the area should be relatively level and clear of debris and loose objects. You should ensure that there are no overhead wires or obstacles in the landing zone. Any known hazards near the landing zone or along the approach path shoud be reported to the pilot. Emergency flashing lights make it easier to identify the landing zone, especially at night, but no one should shine lights in the cockpit of the landing or departing aircraft. Such lighting may temporarily blind the pilot and the crew. The landing zone can be marked at night with vehicle headlights pointed toward the center of the landing zone.

For maximum safety, remember the acronym

SLOW:

S Size of landing zone = 100 feet x 100 feet
L Landing Area: Mark each corner of the landing with orange cones by day or lights at night
O Obstacles: Ensure the landing zone is clear of all wires, trees, signs, poles, buildings, people, objects, or vehicles
W Winds: Note the current wind direction
 

For more information or questions contact Baptist LifeFlight at 1-800-874-1555.

Pensacola FL Florida