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mickjoebill
24th Feb 2011, 05:26
An informative interview on TV today from Simon Duncan manager of a Christchurch based heli company regarding use of his and other helicopters after the quake.
As I understand it they dont usually have the need to land on roads or in close vicintiy to buildings and he indicated that they had conducted a few out of the ordinary missions.
Extinguishing a Fire | New Zealand Earthquake | Comcast.net (http://www.comcast.net/slideshow/news-newzealandearthquake/4/)


Activities included
Landing in the CBD to transport patents to hospital two at a time once it became clear the ambulance service had become overloaded.
Landing among destroyed buildings with nil road acess to evacuate seriously ill victims.
Used bambi buckets to knock back a fire in the stairwell of the collapsed CTV building, whilst resucers worked below. (Reticulated supply was knocked out)
Conducted aerial surveys.
Extracted victims from a tower block who were trapped due to collapsed stairwell
Inserted rescue teams onto roofs of tower blocks.

Other news;
Reports of a small drone in use for surveys of roofs of collapsed buildings has been reported.

Chief of rescue operations during a press conference asked helicopters to stay away from the CBD area because numerous acoustic listening devices were in use.


Mickjoebill

Nigel Osborn
24th Feb 2011, 06:09
That drone looked quite remarkable having 3 rotor blades. I think it could go up to 120 metres up & took amazing video shots.

mickjoebill
24th Feb 2011, 18:20
A self motivated group, calling themselves The Rangiora Express are using a donated R44 to ferry food and water to a few particular outer suburbs, with poor road connections that have yet to recieve much government support and are really hurting.


If ppruners you can help in any way call Brendan +61 (0)21 054 0762
More details on the Rangiora Express facebook page;

The Rangiora Earthquake Express | Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/pages/The-Rangiora-Earthquake-Express/153841938005848)



The album says it all, landing in a modern suburb and being surrounded by 20 residents needing the most basic of essentials, water. (and pizza!)
The Rangiora Earthquake Express's Photos - Wall Photos | Facebook (http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=154045354652173&set=a.154045081318867.33473.153841938005848&theater)

Quote from yesterday
We've been very busy today Helicoptering in food and water to grief stricken areas of CHCH. We've put down and distributed 5 loads to Bexley and Aranui which are without power, water or sewerage. They have not received any other assistance to date! These areas are in desperate need. Please continue to donate items to the Rangiora collection centre - St Josephs Church, Victoria St. Thank you!

Mickjoebill