Liferaft evacuation from a ditched helicopter: dry shod vs. swim away method.
METHODS
There were 23 male and 21 female subjects who conducted a series of evacuations from the NUTEC Super Puma helicopter simulator into an RFD heliraft in the Bergen Fjord. The dry shod and swim-away methods were compared both on the windward and leeward side.


RESULTS
The dry shod method is the method of choice, although the swim-away method should be taught as an alternative in the event of imminent capsizing. Irrespective of method, evacuation wherever possible should be on the windward side.


CONCLUSIONS
Because it is critical for the aircrew to make a split-second decision concerning which method to use, they should have special training in open water after traditional pool training.
Brooks
C J
CJ
Canadian Forces Hospital Halifax, Nova Scotia, Canada.
Potter
P L
PL
Hognestad
B
B
Baranski
J
J
D000060:Accidents, Aviation; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D000401:Aircraft; D000704:Analysis of Variance; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007101:Immersion; D007231:Infant, Newborn; D008297:Male; D008875:Middle Aged; D018635:Rescue Work / Q000379:methods*; D013534:Survival; D013550:Swimming; D013997:Time Factors; D014919:Wind