Air Operations
Halifax is within the service area of three air amulance companies. The coordination of and the request for an air evac would be made through our dispatcher ("415"). After the request, we would be responsible for:
- Patient packaging
- Landing Zone (LZ) preparation
- Air-to-Ground communication
In most cases, we will request Halifax Fire Company to assist with LZ preparation. Additionally, we will likely require a ground transport ambulance to transport patient from scene to LZ.
Senior members (EMT and above) ought to know the Activation Guidelines (PDF, 27KB)
Patient Packaging
- Secure airway if possible
- Trauma patients require full spinal immobilization
- Initiate two large bore IVs
- Insert foley catheter if appropriate and in protocol
- Insert Nasogastric tube (Orogastric tube if head injured) on patients who have an altered level of consciousness, abdominal trauma, or multi-system trauma
LZ Preparation
- Print and carry LZ Document (PDF, 129KB)
- 100x100 area, flat
- No loose snow, no loose dirt (packed dirt, ok)
- No wires overhead
- Light up LZ until instructed, then use parking lights only
- Close all windows
- Don't approach until instructed. Approach at 90 degrees
Air-to-Ground Communications
- Inform 415 that you have VTAC4 on your radio
- Use VTAC 4 unless otherwise instructed
- Monitor 415 and Scene Ground as well
- Inform IC when communication is initiated
Air Evac Services
Halifax is in the service area for three organizations:
- DHART 800-650-3222
- LifeNet of NY 800-435-3822
- UMass LifeFlight 800-343-4354