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. Language: en