When 999 Call Handlers Ask You to Do Something New
During an emergency, the 999 call handler may guide you through tasks you haven’t been formally trained to do. This can feel daunting, but their instructions are based on clinical protocols and designed to keep the patient as safe as possible until help arrives. They will talk you through each step clearly, at a pace you can manage, and only ask you to do what is necessary in that moment. This approach is in the newly updated first aid guidelines 2025.
Working Safely with Helicopter Rescue
In some situations, the safest and fastest way to evacuate a patient from a remote or hard‑to‑reach area is by helicopter. This may be because land access is slow, hazardous, or would place the patient at greater risk. Understanding how to assist safely can make a real difference to the outcome. With increasing incidents being attended by the Air Ambulance & Coastguard Search & Rescue crews across the UK and the possibility of an Emergency Call Handler asking you to perform tasks that you may have received no training in, we have reviewed and updated our previous article from 2020.
Making Yourself Visible
When helicopters are deployed to remote locations, they may be the first resource on scene or may be requested later by mountain rescue teams. If you are awaiting a helicopter, your priority is to make yourself as visible as possible.
During daylight:
- An orange survival bag or brightly coloured item is highly visible from the air.
- Stand with your feet together and raise your arms into a clear Y‑shape.
- Keep still. Movement can blend you into the environment, especially if others nearby are moving. Stillness helps you stand out.
Many people instinctively wave at helicopters, but this can make you look like everyone else. Aim to look different and distinct.
In darkness:
- Shine your torch onto the ground and sweep it slowly side to side. From above, this creates a larger, more noticeable light signature.
- If you have a glow stick, swing it in a wide circle to increase visibility.
Safety as the Helicopter Approaches
When the aircraft is landing or lowering a winch operator, safety becomes critical:
- Keep all bystanders at least 50 metres away.
- Never approach the helicopter — the crew will come to you.
- Do not attempt to assist the winch operator unless they specifically ask.
- Avoid shining torches or head torches at the aircraft or crew, as this can impair their vision and compromise safety.
Non‑Remote Areas
The same principles apply in more accessible environments. In these situations, emergency services will usually manage the landing site. Your role is to stay clear, follow instructions, and only assist when directed.
🚁 Elevate Your Skills. Be Ready When It Matters.
Helicopter-assisted rescues are becoming more common, and the right training can make all the difference. Whether you’re working in remote environments, leading outdoor groups, or simply want to feel more confident in an emergency, our specialist courses are designed to build real-world capability.
Explore our training programmes today and take the next step in your first aid development. We’re here to support you every step of the way.