Landing zone safety and security is of utmost importance during helicopter landings at various designated or undesignated sites. To facilitate medical transport of patients, Boston MedFlight, in conjunction with community fire departments, developed a set of safe designated landing zone areas, identified and recorded by global positioning system coordinates.

In addition to designated landing zones, the helicopter may land at an undesignated landing zone. In the event of an undesignated landing zone situation, communication must exist between Boston MedFlight and ground personnel in order to identify the landing zone and clear the area of obstructions. Highway and open field landings are common.

Minimum 100 ft x 100 ft

During a night landing:
· No lights should be pointed toward the sky.
· Emergency lights should be on to help locate the LZ.
· Two vehicles should be stationed at the corners to make an "x" with their low beam lights.
· Any obstructions should be illuminated.
· Crews routinely use night vision goggles. Emergency vehicles may be asked to shut off emergency lights.

When moving the patient from the scene to the helicopter certain rules need to be followed:

· Crew will assign 4 personnel to help carry the stretcher to the aircraft – crew will brief personnel on procedure.
· All chinstraps should be secured. Unsecured hats, such as baseball caps are hazardous.
· It is important to follow the instructions of the crew at all times.
· Remember to exit in the same direction that you approached the aircraft.
· Loading the patient in the aircraft varies with each helicopter.
· Approach and departure from the aircraft will always occur a the 3 or 9 o'clock position.