Pilots to fly with night vision goggles
Launch of night flying goggles for emergency Red Cross Ambulance Medical Services (AMS).
THE Department of Health in KwaZulu-Natal launched the revolutionary Night Vision Aero-medical system last night.
This is set to bolster the department’s ability to respond to emergency situations at all hours even in areas that are unreachable by road transport.
The department, in partnership with the Red Cross Air Mercy Services, will be launching the night–time aeromedical services which have been made possible through an investment on Night Vision Goggles (NVG’s).
The NVG is a specially designed pair of goggles that is generally used in a military environment and allows the user better visibility in night conditions. The Department of Health’s aircrafts interiors have been modified and training has commenced with almost all the Richards Bay Pilots being fully trained. With the proper night-vision equipment, the crew on board the helicopter can see a person standing over 183 m away on a moonless, cloudy night!
This service, which is used mostly by the first world high-tech Air Forces, is a first by a government department for KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa and the African continent.
Its availability will greatly improve access and the delivery of advanced medical and trauma care to our patients and victims of motor vehicle collisions and those trapped in mountains. It has also resulted in the increase of the aeromedical hours of operations.
