So,You Want to Be a Helicopter Rescuer? Artwork

Rescue Radio by Portland Mountain Rescue

Portland Mountain Rescue is a non-profit, volunteer organization dedicated to saving lives through rescue and education. Rescue Radio was created to reach a wider audience to prevent emergencies in the greater outdoors.

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Rescue Radio by Portland Mountain Rescue

So,You Want to Be a Helicopter Rescuer?

April 01, 2023 • King County Sheriff's Office • Season 3 • Episode 2

Hosted by Ania Wiktorowicz, Created by Mari Feher

Eric Gagnon has been in Search and Rescue for 25 years. He has been in helicopter rescues for 10 years with King County Sheriff's office in the state of Washington after a start at the Coast Guard. Not only is he a rescue specialist, a hoist operator but currently he is training incoming new members on how to conduct rescues. Having numerous back country helicopter rescues under his belt, he is here to tell us what it takes to be a helicopter rescuer, what the process looks like and what you, as a backcountry enthusiast can do to be most helpful should you find yourself an active participant in an aerial rescue.

Helpful links:
kingcounty.gov
nols.edu
wildmed.com
avtraining.org
americanavalancheinstitute.com
avalanche.org