In the last weeks, 19 volunteers and lifeguards from the Emergency Response and Rescue Corps (ERRC) attended a helicopter approach training session at the Armed Forces of Malta Air Wing, which is the Unit tasked with Helicopter Rescue Operations.

The training consisted of theoretical lectures about safety aimed at minimising risks when using a helicopter during a rescue operation. This was followed by a practical session involving helicopter approaches and conveying a ‘casualty’ on a stretcher.

This training is considered mutually beneficial to both AFM and ERRC, since ERRC provides lifeguarding and water rescue service every day in Comino during the summer months. Seeing that on numerous occasions casualties had to be conveyed to Mater Dei Hospital by means of helicopter, this training renders ERRC lifeguards and AFM more interoperable and better equipped to fulfil this specific task.

Such safety training continues to strengthen the cooperation between the AFM’s Airwing personnel and ERRC rescuers who endeavour to provide the important service towards the civilian population especially in these summer months.