Interesting comments in all. First about the programme:
We have done 4 Tv programmes now and quite frankly are fed up with them all!! However we did learn a valid lesson very early on: DON'T TRUST THE MEDIA!! It is essential that you get them to show you the rushes and that the operator (C Constable) has the final editing say on what is shown.
Obviously this is a compromise because they want drama and you want a boring bullet proof documentary!!
Examples that sprung to mind during this recent TV programme with S Yorks:[This is meant to be constructive so please don't take it the wrong way........]
1. Make sure the backdrops are realistic. Continuity is essential).
2. Flying shot with engine(s) at idle.
3. First shot autumn followed by next shot summer.
4. Flying whilst back doors open (negates Perf Class One for starters) - also massive FOD hazard. (IF it was shot with a/c in hover, then make sure the camera crew pan out to show the hover)
5. The standing on the helmet scene gives the wrong message to viewers.
6. Flying in thunder/Lightning - it looked like you were flying inside or damned near the cell itself...which obviously is crass stupidity. Either you land or get the commentary to explain that the a/c wasn't in any real danger.
7. Dubbing alternative helicopter sounds (it sounded like the squirrel?) over the MD902 rotor sound is a cheap way to edit after the static takes.
TV documentaries are double edged swords - you have to totally control their editing or else it bites you big time.
CASEVAC Vs HEMS.
We do about 100+ HEMS a year and about 20 Casevacs.
HEMS is when you are airborne either because you are being paid to fly by the ambulance authority or you planned to carry a paramedic in the first instance. The magic word that differentiates one from the other is: INTENT. If you intend to take money off the ambulance trust and/or roster a paramedic to fly with you, you are a HEMS outfit (assuming the CAA give you the approval in the first palce).
HEMS is legislated for by JAR OPs3.
Casevac by ANO.
No HEMS at night because you need two pilots OR a HEMS crew member (paramedic) in the co-pilot seat AND approval to fly in your force area because the topography is suitable for single pilot ops. [Only WILTS have this approval in the police world).
Both definitions (HEMS and Casevac, more or less mean the same thing in terms of saving life. IF the patient is possibly/probably going to die - you pick them up.. no messing about.
The vagaries of "possibly/probably" will always lie in the anulls of medical prognosis and the CAA nor anyone else for that matter will ever be able to challenge the paramedics views.
For those who relish being filmed in future: the devils in the small print and don't believe a word they say
