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REACH Helicopter Landing Zone Training at Lookingglass RFD

A group of people stands beside a helicopter on a tarmac, with trees and a structure in the background.

On the evening of Thursday, June 12th, community members may have heard or seen the REACH Air Medical Services helicopter land at the Lookingglass Rural Fire District station. This was a planned part of a special training session conducted in partnership with REACH and Tenmile Rural Fire District.

The purpose of the training was to provide our crews with hands-on experience in establishing and managing a helicopter Landing Zone (LZ)—a critical skill when responding to emergencies where rapid air transport is needed. These trainings are essential for refining procedures, identifying challenges ahead of time, and ensuring all participating agencies can coordinate efficiently and safely during real incidents.

Why a Medical Helicopter May Be Called In

Medical helicopters are typically requested in emergencies where time is critical and ground transport may not be fast enough. This can include:

A person is wrapped and secured in a yellow rescue emergency bag on the ground, surrounded by others.
  • Severe trauma incidents, such as car accidents, falls, or industrial accidents
  • Critical medical conditions like heart attacks, strokes, or severe burns
  • Remote or hard-to-reach locations where ambulance access is limited or delayed
  • Multiple casualty incidents, where additional transport resources are needed quickly

In many cases, a helicopter can reduce the time it takes to reach a hospital equipped for specialized care, which can be the difference between life and death.

Training for Preparedness

By training under realistic conditions, responders build the necessary muscle memory, communication, and decision-making skills to ensure a smooth and safe operation when it matters most. These sessions also strengthen inter-agency relationships, which are crucial for coordinated emergency response.

A Reminder to the Public

If you ever see a helicopter landing near an emergency scene, please remember to:

  • Stay back and give emergency responders plenty of room to work
  • Never approach the aircraft, even if it appears shut down
  • Keep children and pets safely away from the area

Helicopters are powerful machines with rotor wash and hazards that remain present even when not running. Your caution and cooperation help keep everyone safe.

We thank REACH Air Medical Services and Tenmile Rural Fire District for their continued partnership and dedication to safety. Together, we are better prepared to protect and serve the Lookingglass community and beyond.

People practicing emergency procedures near a helicopter. One person lying on a stretcher, others in uniform assisting.
A person is being strapped onto a stretcher by several people.
A person in yellow protective gear and cap is lying on a stretcher, surrounded by people standing on asphalt.
A group of people standing outside, some in casual clothing, near a red structure and trees, one holding a yellow object.
A group of people stands around a red and black helicopter with a person inside, outdoors during daylight.
Two people inspecting a red and black helicopter on a paved surface.