Module 4 - Safety
Helicopter Rescue
Maintain the listening watch on Channel 16 or the frequency specified and repeat the aircraft's requested course, speed and working area. Clear loose gear before the helicopter arrives and keep people away from the winching area unless they have an assigned job. Do not invent a universal heading or stop the vessel unless directed; the safe profile depends on the aircraft, wind, sea, vessel and casualty.
A hi-line is a light line used to guide the winchman or strop when the helicopter cannot hover directly overhead. Tend it, keep it clear of obstructions and feed or recover slack as directed. Never secure a hi-line or winch wire to the yacht and never wrap it around a person or hand.
The wire and the person being lowered may carry a dangerous static charge. Do not touch either until earthing or discharge has occurred and the aircrew or winchman directs contact. The safe action is to follow the live instruction, not to assume that the wire must always be made to touch a particular part of the yacht first.
Once aboard, the winchman controls the transfer. Keep the working area clear, continue the requested course and speed, and report any fouled line or new hazard immediately. Never cut a fouled wire unless the helicopter crew directs it.
- Follow the aircraft's requested course, speed, communications and winching area
- Clear loose gear and keep unassigned people away
- Never make a hi-line or winch wire fast to the yacht
- Do not touch the wire or person until earthing has occurred and contact is directed
- Follow the winchman and report fouling or hazards immediately
Watch for this: Tend a hi-line as directed and keep it clear of fittings. Never make it fast, stand in a bight or wrap it around a hand; it must remain free for the aircraft to move away.
Optional quick check
Section 5 of 6
The helicopter lowers a hi-line to the yacht. What should the nominated crew member do?
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