1. Helicopter Operations

2. Outline Preparing for a helicopter evacuation Lift techniques:
Direct lift
High-line transfer
Alternative small boat technique

3. General Considerations
Helicopter operations typified by:
Strong downdrafts / spray
High noise levels
Static electricity
Always obey signals and directions from the helicopter crew

4. Preparing for a Lift Prepare boat As helicopter approaches:
Wind direction
Secure loose objects
Remove obstructions
Clear area for lift
Wind 20o to 40o on port bow
Wear facemasks for spray protection
Maintain constant speed and heading
As helicopter approaches:
Obey helicopter crew’s instructions (radio or visual)
Crew will determine type of lift
Helicopter will position itself relative to the boat

5. Direct Lift Can be used on boats of all sizes
Don’t touch the
Winchman!
Let the winchman or trailing line touch the boat/sea first

6. High-line Transfer (1) Used where obstructions/boat motion a problem
Let the line touch the boat/sea first
Don’t tie the line to anything
Keep line clear of obstructions

7. High-line Transfer (2)

8. High-line Transfer (3)

9. High-line Transfer (4) Take up slack in the line
Don’t try to pull the winchman towards you
Use line to guide winchman over deck

10. High-line Transfer (5)

11. High-line Transfer (6)

12. High-line Transfer (7)

13. High-line Transfer (8)
Pay out line as winchman moves away

14. High-line Transfer (9)

15. High-line Transfer (10)

16. High-line Transfer (11)

17. Small Boat Technique Preparation
Boat deploys sea anchor or anchors
Wind direction
Wear facemask for protection from downdraft / spray
Helicopter will position to winch directly into boat
Sea conditions may dictate variations – always follow helicopter crew’s instructions

18. Summary Helicopter operations are typified by:
Strong downdrafts / spray
High noise levels
Static electricity
Prepare boat in advance:
Loose articles / obstructions
Wind direction
Sea anchor / anchor
Lift techniques:
Direct lift - high-line transfer - small boat
Always obey signals/directions from the helicopter crew