New temporary helipad in Thompsontown passes trial
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THOMPSONTOWN -- As test runs go, the temporary helipad at the Thompsontown Volunteer Fire Co. No.8 station got a thumbs up from all of the agencies involved.
The temporary, transitional helipad -- a 60-foot white circular outline with a painted white square with a red "H" in the center -- was recently installed and went through a trial landing with a Penn State Health Life Lion Critical Care Transport helicopter and crew on Tuesday, July 23.
The transitional landing zone project was a joint effort between the Thompsontown Volunteer Fire Co., whose station is located on State Street, and Thompsontown Borough.
"This is an important improvement to our community to get our citizens to appropriate medical care when seconds count," fire company officials posted on social media. "We would like to thank the borough for their tireless efforts in making this a reality."
The trial landing also drew a small crowd of curious onlookers from the community. They maintained a safe distance from the helipad while watching the helicopter land and take off.
The event was originally scheduled for July 22, but it was delayed due to the forecasts for inclement weather.
"Thank you to everyone who came out to watch and we hope it was a great experience for all," the fire company added. "A special thanks to Life Lion and the crew who came out tonight and made this possible, we greatly appreciate your time."
Emergency transports have been using the field for some time, according to Carolyn Dymond, treasurer for the Thompsontown Volunteer Fire Co. No. 8. The helipad is vital to providing emergency services to those in need since the closest hospitals are in the Lewistown and Harrisburg areas.
Eventually, a permanent helipad is expected to be constructed once the borough secures grant funding, Dymond said. It would be paved and fitted with landing lights. Obtaining a license and maintaining a temporary fixture were also part of the requirements.