March 21, 2008
Safety Drill to be Held at NYC Heliport
EAST 34TH ST METROPORT; REGISTRATION 10 A.M. APRIL 12, 2008
Yardley, PA, March 21, 2008--Building on two previous successful events, the Eastern Region Helicopter Council announces the third annual heliport safety drill at the East 34th Street Metroport on Saturday, April 12, 2008 in Manhattan.
The drill has been renamed in honor of Paul Smith, the long-time Helicopters, Inc. news gathering pilot, past ERHC President, and safety leader who was struck down by a taxi on a Manhattan sidewalk last fall. Mr. Smith was posthumously awarded the Joe Mashman Safety Award in February 2008 by the Helicopter Association International at its annual Heli-Expo Salute to Excellence awards banquet.
Metroport Manager Patricia Wagner, originator of the event, highlights the following:
- Heliports sponsoring Emergency Response Drills have enhanced the city's ability to have a Continuity Plan to include helicopter response;
- Third annual drill will be hosted by Atlantic Aviation and include enforcement agencies such as FDNY, NYPD, Harbor Patrol, Coast Guard, EMS, and much more;
- Operators and heliport staff are prepared to present a range of topics from ramp safety to disaster response;
- With the access of the three heliports in Manhattan we offer a wide range of support to the local authorities if needed;
- Staff and Industry personnel will benefit from the coordination of response with the understanding of who will respond in an emergency and under what circumstances;
- Community understanding that heliports offer a ways and means to accomplish immediate response to many different emergencies;
- Because the 34th street heliport is closed on Sat and Sun, we are able to host this event for the benefit of all;
- An opportunity to be prepared in the air and on the ground with proper equipment and communication skills review;
- Great day to get out and enjoy the waterfront;
- Rain date is April 19
News media planning to attend are requested to notify Ms. Wagner at 212-889-2551.
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ERHC is the northeast’s leading organization for helicopter professionals and an expert resource for the public. Founded in 1977, its volunteer leaders continue to work with communities, FAA, and their members for enhanced safety, professionalism, and efficiency. Learn more about the ERHC and its initiatives at its web sites www.erhc.org and www.flyneighborly.net