In Quebec, more than twenty ZECs subscribe to Airmedic’s heliported medical assistance service. This service, essential in many cases, offers peace of mind for visitors and staff. It also proves the ZECs’ promise to safety on their territory. The ZECs of Quebec offering Airmedic’s heliported medical assistance service are aware of the risks associated with remoteness in emergencies. Thus, visitors benefit from a fast and professional service during an evacuation for the entire duration of their stay.
Going beyond safety standards
Did you know that Airmedic-certified ZECs exceed the usual safety requirements?
Indeed, during an emergency, Airmedic deploys the resource best suited to the situation. Furthermore, Airmedic supports the ZECs in the constant progress of their emergency protocols. Airmedic proudly supports the ZECs in continuously reviewing their emergency measures. This teamwork proves beneficial in emergency situations, as demonstrated by Michel Charrette, director of ZEC Capitachouane.
1. A plan for all emergency situations
Safety is an integral part of the ZEC Network’s mission. Developing emergency response plans is therefore essential. When a visitor suffers a bad fall or reacts to an insect bite, every second counts. Fortunately, certified ZECs can rely on Airmedic’s support to integrate these measures into their assistance service. Thanks to the collaboration of coordinators, pilots, and evacuation experts, the service adapts to the reality of each territory. Managers can thus proudly state:
“My ZEC meets and goes beyond the health and safety requirements of the industry.”
2. In-depth knowledge of the territory for faster evacuation
The ZEC territories offer beautiful landscapes but also access problems. Forest roads, areas without coverage, and long distances make ground evacuation difficult. By subscribing to a medical assistance service, the ZECs ensure their health and safety partners know their territory.
Indeed, the development and identification of potential helicopter landing sites are essential for rapid response. Dense forests don’t stop Airmedic. Its coordination center and pilots are familiar with potential pickup locations.
These zones, cataloged within Airmedic’s system as well as on the ZECs’ territory, allow pilots to reach the sites more quickly.
3. 24/7 telephone medical assistance
A skin reaction after a walk in the forest can worry a visitor. Although the situation may seem minor, medical support is always welcome. As the saying goes, “Better safe than sorry.” Airmedic-certified ZECs have access to on-call managers 24/7. Thus, nurses respond to all questions, whether transport is required or not. Even if the situation is resolved on-site, the service remains available and reassuring.
4. Tabletop simulation
An Airmedic emergency call, is it like a 9-1-1 call? What information should I provide? Who is responsible for contacting Airmedic? Where can I find the emergency number? Who will answer my call?
All these questions are legitimate, and territory managers benefit from being familiar with the information that will be requested during such calls. To answer these questions, Airmedic offers simulations on site. The objective: to test the team’s reflexes. Airmedic provides its coordination center to orchestrate an emergency call and simulate an emergency evacuation on site. These simulations also allow verification of helipad locations and protocol compliance.
Learn more about table simulations.
Airmedic’s commitment
Airmedic is the first organization in Canada to have successfully completed the Qmentum accreditation program with aeromedical standards. This means it meets over 400 international standards in care and safety. The Accreditation Canada certification ensures that Airmedic adheres to global standards of care and leadership to provide safe and high-quality services.
Unlike other companies offering similar services, Airmedic is not limited to one or two aircraft. It provides non-stop service 24/7. Airmedic is also the only private helicopter transport company accredited to use military-grade night vision goggles. They enable Airmedic to provide day and night service to its members.
Safety is a top priority in Airmedic’s operations. In addition to being the operator of its aircraft and accountable to Transport Canada, Airmedic has established a safety management system with a dedicated Quality and Safety team to identify preventive measures and avoid incidents or accidents.
The ZEC Network: accessible and safe territories
Controlled harvesting zones (ZECs) offer outdoor enthusiasts the opportunity to discover exceptional wilderness territories and enjoy a variety of outdoor activities. They also provide affordable access to nature for all. Managed by non-profit organizations, these territories promote conservation, wildlife management, safety and accessibility.
With 63 zecs, 300 rivers and 16,480 lakes, Réseau Zec is an ideal playground for hunting, fishing, camping, canoeing and more.
Through their collaboration with Airmedic, the zecs are demonstrating that it is possible to make these territories accessible while ensuring optimum safety. Réseau Zec is proud to represent such a committed partner.
