Medivac
A medical evacuation - or medivac - can be required when a person is sick or injured in a road accident, during a bushwalk, while at sea, or in a remote area. In such circumstances, the Westpac Rescue Helicopter Service may be called to perform the evacuation.
While usually a medivac will be handled by an SES or police officer, if the helicopter needs to use your property as a landing zone during an emergency, here are some points you need to be aware of:
- SIZE: The site where the helicopter will land should be a minimum of 25m x 25m.
- SLOPE: The ground should be flat, although a slight slope is acceptable.
- SECURITY: It is very important that the landing site be clear of any items that could be lifted in the strong downwash of the helicopter. Roofing iron, sheets of tin or wood, feed bags, buckets, tarps covering machinery and open shed or vehicles doors in and surrounding the landing area should be fully secured or removed.
- WIRES: Be VERY diligent with wires. Ensure the landing site does not have any wires crossing it, or close to it.
- STOCK: Move any stock paddocked close to the landing zone as the sound of the helicopter and its downwash will spook them and they may get injured.
Approaching the helicopter
Remain clear of the helicopter at all times and don’t approach it unless directed by our crew. The helicopter will generally power down at an incident site, but in case it doesn’t please stay clear at all times. If you have any questions about the Westpac Rescue Helicopter landing on your property, please contact us here.
