6 days Ago
The Wiltshire and Bath Air Ambulance team has issued a safety warning after it had to abort a landing in Swindon. While responding to a trauma injury incident on Sunday, March 30, the air crew’s helicopter was about to touch down when children suddenly came running towards the landing spot. This forced the pilot to abort the landing and fly back up until the space was clear.
The helicopter was able to land during its second attempt but this caused a delay to the paramedics’ arrival to the scene of the emergency. In an article published on the charity’s website this week, chief pilot Matt Wilcock, who was in the cockpit at the time this unexpected problem occurred, said: “Safety is our top priority. Flash sale alert🌟 Dive deeper into the stories that shape Swindon with Swindon Advertiser Unlimited local news, an ad-free app, and a digital replica of our print edition—all with 80% fewer ads on our site Subscribe now for a faster news experience - https://t.
co/ayrpkI4RBy pic.twitter.com/mkI3QtzrfJ “We had to make the difficult decision to abort the landing to ensure the safety of everyone involved, including the children who unexpectedly entered the landing zone.
“We urge the community to be aware of the dangers and to follow the guidelines we’ve provided to prevent such incidents in the future. “Every second counts in an emergency, and delays can have serious consequences.” The safety guide released by the charity after this aborted landing aims to inform people so that these situations occur less frequently.
It includes eight simple steps which should ensure the experience for everyone runs smoothly and, most importantly, safely. The guide includes information about making space, watching for downwash and staying clear until the aircrew have landed and the blades have stopped turning. The pilot will remain with the helicopter whilst the critical care team carry out their work.
Once they have finished the necessary paperwork, and if time permits, this is usually the opportunity to approach and meet the pilot (wait to be called forward). There could even be the chance to look around the aircraft and take pictures, if the situation permits. The charity’s helicopter and two critical care cars all have QR codes on their livery, which will help onlookers learn more about the air ambulance and submit photos and videos.
The guide can be found on the website www.wiltshirebathairambulance.org.
uk Matt added: “Our guide will help ensure a positive experience for you, but most importantly, a safe environment for everyone, including our aircrew and patients. “Your help and continued support is truly appreciated.”.
