Surviving a Helicopter Crash: Tips and Training

The reality of surviving a helicopter crash is a terrifying thought, but with the right preparation, you can dramatically increase your chances of survival. Helicopters, while generally safe, are designed for air travel and are not built to float or withstand impacts in water. In this article, we will explore the specific challenges of a helicopter crash and the crucial steps you can take, as well as training that can significantly improve your survival chances.

Why Escaping a Helicopter Crash is so Dangerous

The primary threat in a helicopter crash is the likelihood of it turning upside down due to the weight of the rotors on top. This means that you will be upside down trying to unbuckle your seatbelt or harness while attempting to find your way out. Since helicopters do not glide, you should expect a hard impact upon hitting the water or ground. The force of the impact can be significant, and the pilot will be trying their best to keep the aircraft from sinking quickly. If a rotor hits the ground, it can keep the blades out of the cabin, but it is still a dangerous situation. The helicopter provides some protection with its crush zone, similar to a car, which can cushion you from ground impacts. However, the situation is complex, and the outcome can be unpredictable.

The Most Dangerous Place: Just Outside the Helicopter

One of the most dangerous positions to be in during a helicopter crash is right outside the aircraft. Jumping out of a sinking helicopter while it is autorotating can have devastating consequences. You will likely hit one of the rotors, and this will not only result in your immediate fatality but also endanger anyone inside the helicopter. The physics of the situation mean that the blades will often stay away from the cabin even if they end up wrapped around it. The helicopter's design includes a crush zone that can help cushion the impact, but the overall risk is still high.

Ditching - A Scary Reality

The term 'ditching' refers to the process of a helicopter landing in water, either deliberately or accidentally. Helicopters generally do not float and can sink quickly. Moreover, the cockpit fills with water, making it dark and cold. You cannot open the doors until the cabin is full, which means you are upside down in the water and cannot breathe. Despite the darkness and cold, you must remain seated until the door can be safely opened. This can be a terrifying experience that requires quick thinking and strong survival instincts.

Why Training is Vital

One of the best ways to increase your chances of survival is through specialized helicopter underwater escape training. Statistics show that individuals who have undergone such training are eleven times more likely to survive a ditching than those who have not. This training is not only practical but also empowering, as it equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to survive a potentially fatal situation.

What You Learn in Helicopter Underwater Escape Training

Helicopter Underwater Escape Training (H.U.E.T.) typically includes several key components:

Escape Techniques: Learning how to unbuckle your seatbelt and exit the helicopter while it is submerged or upside down. Survival Skills: Understanding how to swim to the surface quickly and safely, which involves breaching the cabin's watertight seal and maintaining body heat in cold water. Ventilation Drills: Training on how to ventilate the cabin to relieve pressure and prevent the drowning of passengers. Rescue Procedures: Familiarizing yourself with the different ways to signal for rescue and the best methods for floating or swimming if there are no rescuers arriving quickly.

While the actual experience of being in a sinking helicopter can be unnerving, the training can turn a potentially life-threatening situation into a survivable one. It is a challenge, but the rewards are significant, especially if you are a regular helicopter user.

Conclusion

Helicopter crashes are highly precautionary situations, and the safety of all passengers is paramount. While the statistics show that helicopter crashes are rare, the preparation for a potential emergency is essential. Helicopter underwater escape training equips individuals with the necessary skills and knowledge to survive a ditching, significantly increasing their chances of survival. By taking this training seriously, you can ensure that you are prepared for any emergency, no matter how unlikely it may seem.