Purpose
To outline the procedure for lifesaving services to secure a helicopter landing site.
Policy
All lifesaving personnel shall be aware of helicopter safety. The pilot will have final and ultimate decision on whether and where to land.
Procedure
When dealing with the Helicopter on water, watercraft should be positioned at the 2 o’clock position. If safe to do so, RWC should face away from the incoming Helicopter so that the sled is exposed for an unobstructed winch operation.
An IRB driver should attempt to face the incoming Helicopter and position themselves so the helicopter approaches from the 2 o’clock angle.
All watercraft should take direction from Helicopter pilot via Surf Channel 1 where possible. Watch for hand signals when Helicopter is in close range and radio is not available*.
*Radio does not operate when watercraft are directly below a hovering Helicopter.