Our first priority is always the safety of the patient, the on-scene responders, and our flight crew. The following Landing Zone guidelines have been prepared to ensure everyone's safety so that every mission can be completed successfully.

Download a Landing Zone Sheet (PDF)

• Black Hills LifeFlight Home
• Landing Zone Guidelines

• Site should be approximately 100 ft. x 100 ft.
• Approach/depart path (into the wind) should be clear of wires, towers, trees, etc. Any objects in the path should be clearly marked.
• Site should be level and free of debris that could become a hazard.
• Remove or secure loose items near the LZ that could be blown by the helicopter.

• The helicopter is very loud and can generate winds in excess of 70 mph. Protect your eyes and body from blowing dirt and your ears from the noise.
• Do not wear caps or loose clothing that could be blown by the helicopter.

• Stay with the patient. Keep the patient at a safe distance and keep them covered.
• Watching a large, noisy aircraft descend from the sky to land can be exciting. Remember to think clearly and stay calm.
• If the helicopter begins to blow debris, do not chase after it. If the item is close enough to reach down and grab, do so. Do not leave your patient unattended.

• Do not approach until directed to do so by a member of the flight crew.
• Always approach the helicopter from the front.
• If you can't see the pilot, he can't see you. The tail rotor is hard to see and is very dangerous. It spins very fast and is close to the ground.
• Pay attention and maintain eye contact with the flight crew at all times.
• Do not walk under the helicopter blades until they have come to a complete stop or the flight crew directs you to do so.
• Your vehicle should be at least 10 ft. beyond the rotor blades.
• If you cannot see the blades, stay at least 30 ft. from the helicopter.

• The flight crew may signal you to bring the stretcher under the rotor blades.
• Make sure that the mattress is secure and that there is no linen to get blown off. Do not hold up any IV fluids. Turn them off and lay them down.

• Follow the flight crew's directions at all times.
• The flight crew will designate personnel to assist in loading the patient.
• Approach from the front. Helicopter parts may be hot or easily damaged. The flight crew will always open and close the doors.
• The flight crew will direct the loading of the patient. Hold patient lines or other equipment as asked by the crew.
• Keep all equipment below shoulder height when approaching the helicopter. Typically, you do not need to crouch down to avoid the blades. If something drops or is blown away, do not chase it.
• Depart toward the front of the helicopter. Your safety, as well as the safety of the patient and flight crew, is very important to us.