Helo Ops
What is the hoist limit on the Dolphin?
600 lbs
What is the 7th step for helo ops?
Briefing with pilot
What is the direct delivery method?
Rescue device is lowered directly to the deck of the vessel.
Who is the salvage officer until someone arrives on scene?
Senior aviator on scene.
To which side should the boat turn in case of emergency?
Turn to starboard
What do you do if the boat loses radio?
Use hand signals and secondary radio.
What is the breakaway signal?
"BREAKAWAY"
What are the trail line specs?
105 feet, orange polypropylene line w/weak link that will snap at 300 lbs and a 5 lb weighted bag
What is the ideal course and speed for the helo?
15-30 knots wind speed @ 35-45 degrees off the port bow
What is the max air speed of the Dolphin?
165 knots
How many engines does the helo have?
2 engines and it needs both
Wear should boat crew be placed?
2 on deck, 1 in cabin observing through window
How many crew are typically on the helo?
2 pilots, 1 flight mechanic and maybe a swimmer
What is the cargo sling limit on the Dolphin?
2,000 lbs
What is the max flight hours of the Dolphin?
3 hours
What is the maximum speed at which you should tow a helo?
5 knots
What are the max personnel allowed on the Dolphin?
7 (3 crew and 4 survivors)
What is the trail-line delivery method?
A 5-lb weight bag dropped via trail line to the vessel, helo backs off and boat crew tends line to pull in hoist device.
What is the 1st step for helo ops?
Check your navigation: check charts for hazards that prevent maintaining course and speed
On what side is the hoist?
Comes out of the right side.
What is the 2nd step for helo ops?
Communications: - Establish primary/secondary comms - Go over on-scene weather - Give exact position - Pass patients' medical condition - Pass other info used to select rescue device - POB on boat and helo - Hoist briefing
What is the 6th step for helo ops?
Designate who gives hand signals to the helo.
What helos are in the Sta San Francisco AOR?
HH-65A Dolphin (short-range recovery helicopter)
What PPE must all crewmembers wear?
Helmets, hearing protection, gloves, PFD's
If you're towing the helo backwards, where should you attached the bridle?
Horizontal tail stabilizers
What is the 5th step for helo ops?
Lower/secure rigging/antennas/gear/flags
What do you do if the boat suffers a steering casualty?
Maintain course and speed as best as possible, but commence breakaway.
What do you do if the boat suffers an engine casualty?
Maintain course and speed using the functioning engine and notify the helo.
Describe the rescue basket?
Multi-jointed rescue basket that provides protection for survivors, floats and is good for all weather
Where can you attach a bridle to the helo?
On the 14-degree frame to which the pilot doors are hinged.
Over which side do you jettison hoisting gear in case of emergency?
Port side
What is the 3rd step for helo ops?
Protective Gear: make sure you're wearing it
Where does the pilot in command sit?
Right seat
What is the 4th step for helo ops?
Secure loose gear on the deck
Describe the stokes litter carried by helos?
Stretcher with floatation collar and chest pad, 5 lbs ballast weight, used for injured/unconscious patients
What is usually the safest method to transfer gear?
Trail line method
What is the indirect helo method?
Used to deliver pumps. Trail line comes down to the vessel, attached to a pump. Helo backs off and drops the pump. Vessel crew heaves it in.
