I am not a SAR chap however as a rotary backseater we are trained in SAR procedures just in case. Therefore not an expert - we leave this to 771, 22, 202 and 203(R), and a great job they do to
We actually use a metal static discharge wire as mentioned by extpwron, commonly known as a "zap lead". 8 to 10' long, it clags on to the end of the winch wire and should, theoretically, touch the ground, sea or fixed object such as a deck before the winchman does, thus grounding the static build up.
If you see one coming down at you DONT reach out and grab it
