RE: Re: helmet vs. headset

["Loyd Helmick" <loyd_helmick@mediplane.com>]

Our program mandates that we wear helmets.  They provide SPH-1.  I went and bought my own helmet which is a Alpha.  Several programs in the area have been purchasing CGFs.  CGFs have had mixed reviews as far as noise attenuation and protection.  Protection from head strikes in the ship from your own equipment.  My helmet saves my head just about everytime I get in the ship.  I know of some programs that have crashed and had fatalities.  I know in one accident 2 of the three crew members helmets were "lost".  Like those MCA we go to and find the poorly fitted helmet 500 feet from the patient.  Not only should you wear a helmet but make sure it fits correctly.  For those programs that are NVG, without a helmet they must use a hand held device instead of helmet mounted ones.  I also ride motorcycles and race bicycles.  I have had crashes and know that my helmet saved me.  I guess it comes down to a preference on weather to wear one or not.  Helmets are not designed to be a portable microphone with a mike.  They are also designed to save your head.

 

Loyd

-----Original Message-----
From: flightmed-admin@flightweb.com [mailto:flightmed-admin@flightweb.com]On Behalf Of Christy Foster
Sent: Wednesday, January 30, 2002 3:04 PM
To: flightmed@flightweb.com
Subject: Re: Re: helmet vs. headset

 Good point......maybe it's just a wee bit of a vanity thing, but helmets can really mess your hair up

Christy

  Curtis Sandy <ccsandy@pol.net> wrote:

Unfortunately the below complaints are all too common, but valid,
reasons for not using helmets. One thing to remember is that there
are other helmets available than the Gentex SPH-5. Granted they are
more expensive but also lighter, more comfortable and have a smaller
profile. I personally wear the CGF Gallet and love it - can actually
now sit upright in the Dauphin without my head hitting the ceiling.

As far as the need to wear a helmet, I figure if it can keep me from
going unconscious and able to crawl out of my burning aircraft, it is
worth it.

Curtis



------------------ Reply Separator --------------------
Originally From: Christy Foster
Subject: Re: helmet vs. headset
Date: 01/30/2002 08:21am



Helmets are optional at our program, but are provided for each
person if they so desire. The majority of us wear headsets, as
helmets are extremely cumbersome, hot, uncomfortable and reduce our
ability to hear reports from EMS and patients well. I have never
found any real substantial evidence citing helmets as the reason for
surviving crashes or head injuries as the sole reason for
fatalities. Just my opinion.
Long-sleeved, Nomex flight suits are also provided at no cost to us.
Christy Foster, TraumaOne Flight Services Jacksonville, FL
Deborah Hulchanski wrote:

I have been doing some "official" research about the helmet vs
headset
controversy. I am familiar with the position statements of various
air
medical professional organizations, have read articles discussing
this
topic...
I am now conducting a little "unofficial" research. My question is
how are
other flight programs handling this issue. Are helmets mandatory or
is
wearing a headset an option? Are they provided or shared cost? What
are
people's thoughts on this topic? Thank you in advance for your
participation.

Deb

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