Safety Precautions - Aircraft present certain unique hazards to fire fighters involved with their operation. The revolving main rotor and tail rotor blades and propellers can inflict FATAL injuries on those who treat them with disrespect.
Strict control and co-ordination between the Pilot and ground personnel is essential for maximum safety and effectiveness of the operation, especially where more than one Aircraft is in use. Fire Fighters should, upon arrival at the Helipad/Airstrip and prior to any flight, check with the Helipad/Airstrip Boss or Pilot for instructions and SAFETY BRIEFINGS. The Pilot is responsible for providing you with a SAFETY BRIEFING and the safety of passengers and the aircraft at all times

Helicopter Hand-Signals - In the confusion of smoke, heat and congested radio channels, hand signals can be very useful, especially for communicating with other sections of the Crew. Clear, commonly understood, hand signals are less likely to be misunderstood than shouted instructions. They also promote a sense of team effort, which has a calming influence under stressful conditions.