Rescue Operations – Helicopter Rescue, Switzerland - Episode 1

Rescue operations in inaccessible environments require perfect knowledge and mastery of equipment. In the first episode, we follow Air Glacier's rescue specialists during one of their regular training exercises, near their base in Sion, Switzerland. These training scenarios prepare them for a variety of situations that could arise in the field, ensuring they can always provide fast, effective, and safe rescue operations

Inside Air Glaciers

Air Glaciers is a Swiss helicopter rescue and transport company that has been serving the community since 1965. They have earned a reputation for demonstrating professionalism, speed, and efficiency in their daily rescue operations. Join us as we accompany a highly skilled rescue crew consisting of two experienced mountain guides and rescue technicians, Stephane and Raphael, pilot Gérald, and a doctor on their training mission.

Stéphane Hottinger and Raphaël Richard are working for several years at Air Glaciers and have been involved in numerous rescue missions

Via Ferrata Rescue via Hoist Operation

Watch the team in action during their via ferrata rescue exercise in the Salentze Gorge in Saillon, a challenging scenario that could occur daily. A man has fallen and dropped three meters down the "Via Farinetta" and needs to be evacuated, but there is no suitable landing spot for the helicopter. The team must perform a hoist rescue using specialized equipment like the LEZARD helivac lanyard and the JAG RESCUE KIT.

Stéphane from the rescue team is getting ready to descend from the helicopter to reach the casualty.

Communication and specialized equipment is key

Scenarios like these require not only technical expertise but also quick thinking and efficient communication between team members. The LEZARD helivac lanyard and the JAG rescue kit are two tools that specialists rely on for pickoff rescue and lower the victim to safety. Proper maintenance and regular training with these tools are necessary to ensure their effective use in critical situations.

At the accident side, the Petzl JAG rescue kit is quickly deployed to perform a pickoff rescue and lower the victim to safety.

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