Yorkshire Air Ambulance charity have launched a new public safety campaign after an unsupervised child threw rocks at the rescue helicopter’s blades during take-off.
The child then ran directly below the aircraft shortly after it lifted from the ground, placing themselves in “extreme danger”.
The incident, which took place in Rotherham earlier this year, was reported to South Yorkshire Police sparking serious safety concerns for crew and members of the public.
Pilot Paul Smith, who was involved in the incident, and the resulting public safety film, said: “People are naturally curious when they see the helicopter land, but these are dangerous and safety-critical operations.”
“Something as small as a stone thrown towards the aircraft or somebody entering the landing area unexpectedly can put our crew, patients, and members of the public at significant risk.”
South Yorkshire Air Ambulance Charity said that, whilst they understand seeing a helicopter land can be exciting, distractions in such safety-critical moments could have devastating consequences.
Kathryn Marsden OBE, CEO of the Charity, said: “Most people are incredibly respectful when they see the helicopter land, but even seemingly small actions can be dangerous.”
“The best thing people can do is keep their distance, ensure children are supervised and keep them close, keep dogs on leads and bever approach the helicopter unless instructed to do so.”
Featuring members of the aviation team, the Yorkshire Air Ambulance campaign helps educate the public on how to act safely when helicopters land at incidents across the region. Of which they can attend up to five each day.
Highlighting particular dangers during take-off and landing including: powerful rotor blades, intense downwash restricted crew visibility and the growing risk posed by drones.
The charity’s short film, which can also be viewed on their social media, reminds members of the public to be mindful when taking photographs and videos at incidents, and respect the privacy and dignity of patients.
Yorkshire Air Ambulance crews are dispatched to thousands of incidents every year to deliver critical care, funded solely by donations.